Beneath the Cross of Jesus (ELW 338)
Devotion
1 Beneath the cross of Jesus
I long to take my stand;
the shadow of a mighty rock
within a weary land,
a home within a wilderness,
a rest upon the way,
from the burning of the noontide heat
and burdens of the day.
2 Upon the cross of Jesus,
my eye at times can see
the very dying form of one
who suffered there for me.
And from my contrite heart, with tears,
two wonders I confess:
the wonder of his glorious love
and my unworthiness.
3 I take, O cross, your shadow
for my abiding place;
I ask no other sunshine than
the sunshine of his face;
content to let the world go by,
to know no gain nor loss,
my sinful self my only shame,
my glory all, the cross.
Text: Elizabeth C. Clephane, 1830-1869
Behold the one who dies abandoned on a tree, accursed, and yet takes away with him all the sins of the world. The Apostle Paul put it so well: "May I never boast of anything but the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world" (Galatians 6:14). From now on, there is no boasting of our accomplishments or exploits. Humanity is judged and found wanting. But God's love saves us. Jesus prayed these blessed holy words from the cross that day, as he embodied God's mercy and showed us the depths of God's love: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Salvation is accomplished. Freed, released, saved, let our words forever be "To God alone the glory." In all our actions, following our Lord's example, may mercy direct us.
Prayer
Grant, O God, that I may walk in peace and forgiveness all my days, ever ready to extend reconciliation to those near me and to find ways to share your love, for my sweet Savior's sake. Amen.