LBW 222, “O Bread of Life from Heaven”
Devotion
Growing up in the ’60s, I spent communion Sundays with the junior high choir watching some 300 adults pass by the choir loft on the way to the altar. We spent a lot of time thinking about that bread and wine and listening to the organist playing the hymns in the Holy Communion section of the hymnal. By the time confirmation day arrived, we were very hungry and very ready to receive our first communion.
Today’s hymn is a memorable one from those waiting days. This 16th century Latin hymn contains beautiful images: manna given for souls wanting and needing the Lord’s love; the means of grace, like a river flowing from Jesus’ wounded side, which fully satisfy and redeem; love for the Lord and the hopeful expectation of beholding God’s glory in eternal life.
The music still moves the heart; the bread still feeds the soul.
Prayer
Gracious God, your blessings come upon me to refresh me with your peace. May the healing gifts of forgiveness strengthen my service. May the times of waiting make me ready to receive with joy your real presence in my life. Amen.