You Servants of God (ELW 825)
1 You servants of God, your Master proclaim,
and publish abroad his wonderful name;
the name, all victorious of Jesus extol;
his kingdom is glorious and rules over all!
2 Ascended on high, almighty to save,
yet still he is night, his presence we have.
The great congregation his triumph shall sing,
ascribing salvation to Jesus, our king!
3 Salvation to God who sits on the throne!
Let all cry aloud and honor the Son.
The praises of Jesus the angels proclaim,
fall down on their faces, and worship the Lamb.
4 Then let us adore and give him his right,
all glory and pow’r and wisdom and might,
all honor and blessing, with angels above,
and thanks never ceasing, and infinite love!
Devotion
The very title of this hymn “You Servants of God” led me to ponder our response to Jesus’ promises given to the disciples at his ascension. When I think of how we are invited and encouraged to respond and participate with jubilance, energy, and excitement, perhaps like me you may find yourself wondering about our ability to respond appropriately. It is then that we are invited to cling to the promise that was given to the disciples and now includes us. The promise of Jesus is that the Holy Spirit will be with us, giving us power and strength, perseverance, and love. With that promise in hand comes the invitation to praise, give thanks, and worship God and to serve our neighbor as we are able until that time when Jesus returns. As servants of God, we are invited to sing together with “thanks never ceasing, and infinite love!”
Prayer
Loving God, we give you thanks that you claim each one of us to be your servant. Guide our whole being in prayer and praise to you and in care for our neighbor. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.