Judica Friday 2020 – Devotion in Exile


Judica Friday 2020 – Devotion in Exile

Our reading from the lectionary for this Friday of the week of Judica, the 5th week of Lent, is from Mark’s Gospel. (Mark 15:33-47)

Mark 15:33-47

For today, I depart from the Scripture lesson. I do so on purpose. Read on!

Dearly beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, our home is often filled with the sound of the singing of hymns. Sometimes, those hymns are intentionally connected with the devotional time we are having as a family unit (Pauline & I – or – Pauline & I and whoever else is residing in our home). Oftentimes time of “Family Altar” is accompanied by Scripture reading, a meditation read from some book of meditations, and in all probability this is done in conjunction with one of the prayer offices found in Lutheran Service Book (Matins, Morning Prayer, Vespers, Evening Prayer, Compline, Responsive Prayer, Daily Prayer---for individuals and family). At other times, especially with our brothers in Christ abiding in our home, it is not unusual to hear a voice (or voices) raised in the singing of some hymn, just for the sake of raising a voice in prayer or praise to God.

At this time in world history, as we awake each day wondering what new curveball has been thrown at us in the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19, we are all a little bit anxious (probably an understatement). If you are like I am, there are moments of tears as we cry about loved ones infected. At other times, there is the stress and concern over what we can do and what we cannot do. There are moments when we wonder what is going to happen next.

It is obvious that we are not in control, and we all feel helpless!

Christ is still Lord over all of creation! He is Lord over His Church! He is our consolation, hope, strength, and sure foundation in these times.

I am sure you know the hymn Be Still, My Soul, written by Catharina Dorothea von Schlegel 1697-1752. It is most often sung to the tune Finlandia. It is a beautiful hymn text, and a comforting melody. It is my devotional thought for you today.

Throughout Scripture we have God’s promises to us. As Moses was departing from the Israelites and there were preparing to enter Canaan, they were terrified of the people, but Moses encouraged them with these words,  “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” (Deut. 31:6)

Jesus Himself tells us, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matt. 11:28-29) At the end of Matthew’s Gospel, just before He ascends into heaven, Jesus instructs His church to baptize and to teach, and the book is closed with these comforting words of our Savior, “And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (until He returns in glory) (Matt. 28:20)

I will let the words of this hymn speak to you. (or if would like, you can listen to Pauline and I sing it by clicking this link https://www.facebook.com/zlcembarrass/videos/596681680925441/ )

1. Be still, my soul: the Lord is on your side;
bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
leave to your God to order and provide;
in ev'ry change he faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: your best, your heav'nly Friend
through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

2 Be still, my soul: your God will undertake
to guide the future as he has the past.
Your hope, your confidence let nothing shake;
all now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: the waves and winds still know
his voice who ruled them while he dwelt below.

3 Be still, my soul: when dearest friends depart,
and all is darkened in the vale of tears,
then shall you better know his love, his heart,
who comes to soothe your sorrow and your fears.
Be still, my soul: your Jesus can repay
from his own fullness all he takes away.

4 Be still, my soul: the hour is hast'ning on
when we shall be forever with the Lord,
when disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: when change and tears are past,
all safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

Our prayer for you all is that Christ continue to bear you up, in all your burdens, that He would still your soul...for only He can!

Peace of the Lord be with you.


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