Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise, vs. 3 & 4, ELW 834
3 To all, life thou givest, to both great and small;
In all life thou livest, the true life of all;
We blossom and flourish like leaves on the tree,
And wither and perish, but naught changeth thee.
4 Thou reignest in glory; thou dwellest in light;
Thine angels adore thee, all veiling their sight;
All laud we would render; oh, help us to see
'Tis only the splendor of light hideth thee!
Devotion
Isaiah was privileged to witness the light of God. Light was the shear, but necessary, veil between him and the holiness of God. This vision redirected his life in a major way! He would proclaim profound judgment and hope to the Israelites. John's gospel begins with the glorious light of creation, the revealed presence of the incarnate God: "in him was life and the life was the light for all people." Yet, Nicodemus came to Jesus in darkness. Sometimes the light of God is too much to bear, for it exposes our striving, our blind spots, our sin. The light of God is a source of life beyond measure. Light is an image of holiness, liveliness and love on a divine scale. The hymn writer calls us into the angelic circle of praise: Celebrate the hope of God's light, God's continuing presence, the true life given for all!
Prayer
Gracious Lord Jesus, so much was given in your ministry on earth. Through death, all are welcomed into new life. We are so grateful for your indwelling light and life. Move us, Lord, in a way that your light and graceful presence will "speak" to others who need hope. Amen.