Of the Father’s Love Begotten (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 295)
1 Of the Father’s love begotten
ere the worlds began to be,
he is Alpha and Omega,
he the source, the ending he,
of the things that are, that have been,
and that future years shall see,
evermore and evermore.
2 Oh, that birth forever blessed,
when the virgin, full of grace,
by the Holy Ghost conceiving,
bore the Savior of our race,
and the babe, the world’s redeemer,
first revealed his sacred face,
evermore and evermore.
3 This is he whom seers in old time
chanted of with one accord,
whom the voices of the prophets
promised in their faithful word;
now he shines, the long-expected;
let creation praise its Lord
evermore and evermore.
4 Let the heights of heav’n adore him;
angel hosts, his praises sing;
pow’rs, dominions, bow before him
and extol our God and King;
let no tongue on earth be silent,
ev’ry voice in concert ring
evermore and evermore.
5 Christ, to thee, with God the Father,
and, O Holy Ghost, to thee,
hymn and chant and high thanksgiving
and unwearied praises be:
honor, glory, and dominion,
and eternal victory
evermore and evermore.
Text: Marcus Aurelius Clemens Prudentius; Music: Plainsong mode V; Public Domain
Devotion
In verse 4 and 5 of this hymn, we sing a prayer: “Let no tongue on earth be silent, every voice in concert ring…Christ, to thee, hymn and chant and high thanksgiving and unwearied praises be: honor, glory, and dominion, and eternal victory evermore and evermore! Amen.”
In Matthew 28:18-20a, Jesus tells His followers: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.” I think this hymn reminds us that it is impossible for us to fulfill this command by being silent. Jesus sets for us an example for our ministry to others. Ministry should include prayer and vocal proclamation. In this way, others can see and hear God´s love in action.
Prayer
Lord God, fill our mouths with the truth from the Word of God, and encourage us to share that Word with others in affirmative and loving action. Let us come among all the nations, near and far, as examples of your love and grace, so that minds and hearts may receive your Word, the blessing of faith, and a new and forever life with you in heaven. Amen.