LBW #425, "O God of Mercy, God of Light"
Devotion
...to feel for those his blood has bought.
On close reflection of this hymn, the words are striking. Our neighbor’s faith or lack of it creates a patchwork quilt throughout our communities. It is easy to hold back from our loving witness and say in effect, “I don’t know about you, but for me…”
But as confessing people, it is essential to our confession is that Christ Jesus’ death is a death that ends all death. It doesn’t matter if a certain neighbor does not have the same confession of faith as you. Your task is to work works for Christ in the lives of your neighbors.
Here’s where I think the Gospel is: my blood doesn’t buy my neighbor. Your blood doesn’t buy your neighbor. Your blood doesn’t even buy you. Christ’s blood has purchased all of us. Life and all the work that is given to us is really a celebration, because we are in Christ.
Prayer
Whether my faith is an ocean or a desert Lord, make a place for me. Amen.