O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (ELW 257, st. 3)
Devotion
3 O come, O come, O Lord of might,
as to your tribes on Sinai's height
in ancient times you gave the law
in cloud, and majesty, and awe.
Refrain
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.
Text: Psalteriolum Cantionum Catholicarum, Köln, 1710; tr. composite
It seems there is a new superhero movie every other month. These films tell stories about individuals who can fly, control time, run at incredible speeds, and lift buildings. They paint a picture of what it is like to be "super."
This hymn reminds us of God's might. But God's might is different than that displayed in our superhero movies. God's power goes beyond the kinds of abilities that are highlighted in those stories. God's might is an upside-down kind of power that takes what might not be considered valuable and gives it importance. God's might isn't limited to God's own action, but also works through those God has created.
God uses power to love, transform, and redeem the world God created. The mighty God chooses to become one of us, to embrace suffering and death, in order to restore right relationship with us and the world. Now that's a superhero!
Prayer
Powerful God, help us understand the way you use power in the world you love. Give us a picture of how your love defines your might. Thank you for using your power to create eternal relationship with us. Amen.