Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me (ELW 623)
1 Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
let me hide myself in thee;
let the water and the blood
from thy riven side which flowed,
be of sin the double cure;
cleanse me from guilt and pow’r.
2 Not the labors of my hands
can fulfill thy law’s demands;
could my zeal no respite know,
could my tears forever flow,
all for sin could not atone;
thou must save, and thou alone.
3 Nothing in my hand I bring;
simply to thy cross I cling.
Naked, come to thee for dress;
helpless, look to thee for grace;
foul, I to the fountain fly;
wash me, Savior, or I die.
4 While I draw this fleeting breath,
when mine eyelids close in death,
when I soar to worlds unknown,
see thee on thy judgment throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
let me hide myself in thee.
Devotion
This traditional hymn begins: “Rock of ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in thee.” We sing asking the Lord to grant us such a rock of security, safety, and protection sense because of his perfect power and perfect knowledge. Psalm 46 begins, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” Our need is great because of our physical, emotional, and spiritual limits. The letter to the Ephesians reminds us of the spiritual enemies that contend with us: “For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” (6:12) No wonder we have the need to lean on the power of God to live as his people daily!
Prayer
Dearest Father, we need your help and strength, your wisdom and guidance to live each day. Help us to lean heavily upon you every hour of every day. Thank you for your daily presence and power that are so close to us. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.