Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery (ELW 334, st. 4)
4 From the dawning of creation
You have loved us as your own;
Stay with us through all temptation,
Make us turn to you alone,
Make us turn to you alone.
Words and music by Marty Haugen
© 1984, GIA Publications, Inc.
Reprinted under OneLicense.net #A730924
Devotion
During Lent, we reflect on Christ’s love as demonstrated in the giving of his life for us on the cross. But this fourth verse of our theme hymn, as well as this week’s psalm, testify that this divine love for us springs forth from the beginning of time. And it never ends!
We live in a world where things are constantly and quickly changing, as we are reminded in the 24 hour news cycle or the latest viral video. Friendships can be fickle. Employment or educational opportunities we have depended on can be lost without warning.
In the midst of uncertainty and instability, our hymn exhorts us to seek grounding in Christ’s love. The cross is our constant reminder that this love is not a passing emotion, but a tangible act of divine self-giving that embraces us from the beginning of time as we know it through its end.
Prayer
Humble Christ, thank you for your endless love that meets us wherever we are and sustains us for a lifetime. Help us to make you our center. Amen.