LBW 455, “‘Come, Follow Me,’ the Savior Spake”
Devotion
There are two basic elements in true worship: God speaks to us and we respond.
In today’s hymn, Christ tells us to forsake the world's lures and to bear the cross of Christian living no matter the cost. It's a demanding challenge, but one for which he promises guidance, example and refuge. In response the hymn writer promises "my heart, my mind, my strength, my all."
One might easily conclude that all we need is a good example or reliable teacher to set us right before God. But we know better. We are daily called back to the cross where our failures and shortcomings are removed. It is there that we are renewed in the "Come, Follow Me" way of life.
In Sunday worship we are reminded of Christ’s continuing call to follow him and invited to respond to his gracious offer of forgiveness.
Prayer
Dear Lord, your call to us is genuine and heartfelt. To follow in your path is a glorious calling. Though we may doubt or deny, give us the power of the Holy Spirit to join the grand parade of saints who have seen your grace and follow you in faith and obedience. Amen.