LBW #163, "Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord"
Devotion
Before hymnals were in every pew, the words of memorized hymns and stained glass on church windows were favorite ways of teaching faith’s basics. Luther’s hymn for today does a rather thorough job of outlining the work of God’s Spirit in human lives. What better way to learn and initiate this than via this prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to do this work in us? Do you have faith in Christ? Thank God’s Spirit.
With an increasing world population, the Holy Spirit must be busy indeed. Every waking hour this Holy Person is guiding, undergirding and comforting every one of us. Sometimes our rebellious side resists this activity. Luther also gave ample room for Satan’s counter work. Additionally, sad events like the loss of loved ones, illness, accidents and aging may cause us to lose heart. The Spirit encourages us to continue to serve others just as we did when we were more vigorous.
Prayer
Spirit of God, work your sacred design in us until we breathe our last. Amen.