“O Spirit of Life,” ELW 405 and WOV 680
1 O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God,
in ev’ry need you bring us aid,
proceeding forth from heaven’s throne,
from God, the Father and the Son;
O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God.
2 O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God,
increase our faith in our dear Lord;
unless your grace the pow’r should give,
none can believe in Christ and live;
O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God.
3 O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God,
make use to love your sacred word;
the holy flame of love impart,
that charity may warm each heart;
O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God.
4 O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God,
enlighten us by that same word;
teach us to know God’s radiant love,
lead us to Christ who reigns above;
O Spirit of Life, O Spirit of God.
Devotion
This hymn summarizes some of the basic actions of the Holy Spirit, which includes giving the gift of faith. Notice the plural language of the hymn. This hymn is a communal one, connecting us to the rest of the congregation when we sing it at church and to all of our brothers and sisters in Christ when we sing it alone. The Spirit of God brings us aid, increases faith in us, moves us to love God’s holy Word and leads us to Christ, which in turn gives us life. Our faith life cannot be experienced separate from the community of believers.
Prayer
Spirit of God, work faith in us and lead us to share that faith with others. Strengthen your church, that we may recognize the unity we share in Christ. Amen.