Isn’t it wonderful how often God gives the gift of His love wrapped in people? There’s a great example of this in the sermon text, where Paul describes his zeal to care for the Corinthians, and how they in turn should care for Titus. Likewise, the hymns in this morning’s service reflect on God’s care for us and call us to care for one another in brotherly love. Jesus, Shepherd of Thy People, and settings of Psalm 8, 95, and 84 all describe the tenderness of God’s love. We ask in amazement, “What is … man that You will gently care for him,” and we marvel that all of creation will find rest beneath His care. Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee, I Will Lift My Voice—Psalm 101, and O Lord How Joyful ‘Tis To See each call us to channel this tender care to our fellow Christians. We ask the Lord to “teach us how to love each other,” we look forward in hope to see “all the faithful souls ever walk in unity,” and we rejoice to see “the brethren join in love to Thee.” The service closes with Rise Up, O Men Of God, a stirring encouragement to “bring in the day of brotherhood.” God never leaves us alone—He places us in the church and gives us shepherds to walk with us. As we go about our week, we pray that the service this morning will remind us to respond to the love and care we have received by pouring that love and care on each other. —Henry C. Haffner & Emma Marsh
Posted by Parish Presbyterian
Categories: Worship Notes