You Give Life

Stop.

Take a deep breath. As you breathe in say, “You give life.” As you breathe out say, “I share your gifts.” Repeat as many times as you need.

Listen.

“We, your servants, bring the worship not of voice alone, but heart; consecrating to your purpose ev’ry gift which you impart.” – Lord, Whose Love In Humble Service, ELW #712

Reflect.

I love how the Lutheran faith tradition sings its beliefs. Since the Reformation over 500 years ago, Lutherans combined theology, devotion, and Biblical learning with music so that we could sing our faith. Pay attention to the words you sing in worship, whether in contemporary or traditional style. These songs aren’t just songs. These songs give you an opportunity to raise your voice in hope and praise. They also help you learn more about what we believe and why. 

I remember this hymn from my childhood. The second verse always stuck with me, as it reflects on how many suffer even though God’s many gifts exist among us. It frequently brought me to tears with its heavy reminder that we bear the responsibility of loving our neighbor with everything God has given us and our neighbor needs our love dearly. 

When I sing this hymn, I feel revived and renewed. It encourages me to truly use what God has given me to the glory of the church and the comfort of my community. I hear that same instinct at work in so many here at Easter. Over and over, Easter people reflect on their gratitude for the important work this church does for others in Christ’s name. Just like the hymn says, we consecrate (that is, dedicate) to God’s purpose (that is, the love of our neighbors) every gift that God imparts to us (that is, every single thing we have). 

What a joy to not only sing what I believe in the community of faith but to put those beliefs into action!

Pray.

God, you have indeed given me all things. Thank you for entrusting these gifts to me. Send me out into your world so that I might share your generous gifts with any who need your love and care. Amen.

Carry On.

What would it look like to bring worship “not of voice alone, but heart”, as the hymn says? How can you really live your faith today?