“There’s A Wideness in God’s Mercy” (ELW 588)
Devotion
There's a wideness in God's mercy,
like the wideness of the sea;
there's a kindness in God's justice
which is more than liberty.
There is no place where earth's sorrows
are more felt than up in heav'n.
There is no place where earth's failings
have such kindly judgment giv'n.
There is welcome for the sinner,
and a promised grace made good;
there is mercy with the Savior;
there is healing in his blood.
There is grace enough for thousands
of new worlds as great as this;
there is room for fresh creations
in that upper home of bliss.
For the love of God is broader
than the measures of our mind;
and the heart of the Eternal
is most wonderfully kind.
But we make this love too narrow
by false limits of our own;
and we magnify its strictness
with a zeal God will not own.
'Tis not all we owe to Jesus;
it is something more than all:
greater good because of evil,
larger mercy through the fall.
Make our love, O God, more faithful;
let us take you at your word,
and our lives will be thanksgiving
for the goodness of the Lord.
Today in many Lutheran congregations (ELCA) around the United States people will be joining in a day of service, to do God's work with our hands. Today is also the fifteenth year since the events of 9/11, when terrorists attacked the U.S. Recognizing the service of first responders, fire fighters, police and all those who respond quickly in service when the need arises, the church expresses gratitude today for all those who serve "on the front lines." After 9/11, the image of the persistent, continuing search for victims for months in the rubble—that people wanted to be there, helping, searching, not giving up—is one that still powerfully connects with us. The powerful image that God's concern and compassion can be mirrored in human response is limitless and unwavering. The call to see and serve the neighbor is issued to God's people. Today, give thanks that as Fred Rogers from Mr. Roger's Neighborhood stated, quoting his mother, "Look for the helpers. You'll always find people who are helping."
Prayer
Holy God, we give thanks that your raise up helpers and inspire so many to act with courage and compassion. Protect them from danger and grant them wisdom in their serving. Amen.