Saying Grace
Cornelis Pietersz. Bega, 1664
My dear friends,
In Romans 8:26-28, the Apostle Paul teaches us about the role of the Spirit of love, compassion and wisdom in our lives, particularly during times of weakness and uncertainty. We may not always know how to express our deepest needs and emotions, but the Spirit, with infinite wisdom and compassion, intercedes on our behalf, aligning our prayers with the will of God that all may be well, happy, joyful and at peace.
Just as the Spirit connects with our innermost selves and the divine, the interconnectedness of all beings connects us to the wider universe. We are not alone in our struggles, but are part of a greater tapestry of love, compassion, and understanding.
In Romans 8:37-39, Paul expresses his conviction that nothing can separate us from the love of God. This love is not only a source of strength and protection but also a testament to the depth of our interconnectedness with the divine. Love is the force that binds us together and guides us on our spiritual journey. By cultivating love, we not only deepen our connection with God but also with each other.
This message transcends religious boundaries, reminding us that we are interconnected beings, supported by the Spirit and the love of God. In our pursuit of love and understanding, we fulfill our divine purpose and contribute to the greater good.
May we find comfort in the assurance of God's love and compassion, and may we strive to cultivate these qualities within ourselves, so that we may be a source of light and hope for all beings.
| Verse | Mark | German | English |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:26 | 00:00 | Der Geist hilft unser Schwachheit auf, denn wir wissen nicht, was wir beten sollen, wie sich's gebühret; sondern der Geist selbst vertritt uns aufs beste mit unaussprechlichem Seufzen. |
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. |
| 8:27 | 03:14 | Der aber die Herzen forschet, der weiß, was des Geistes Sinn sei; denn er vertritt die Heiligen nach dem, das Gott gefället. |
And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. |
| * | 05:20 | Du heilige Brunst, süßer Trost Nun hilf uns, fröhlich und getrost In deinem Dienst beständig bleiben, Die Trübsal uns nicht abtreiben. O Herr, durch dein Kraft uns bereit Und stärk des Fleisches Blödigkeit, Dass wir hie ritterlich ringen, Durch Tod und Leben zu dir dringen. Halleluja, halleluja. |
Thou sacred ardor, sweet consolation, now help us, joyful and steadfast in Thy service, always to remain; let not sorrow drive us away! O Lord, through Thy power make us ready and strengthen the feebleness of our flesh so that we may valiantly strive through life and death to reach Thee! Alleluia, alleluia. |
| * - Martin Luther's third stanza to the hymn "Komm, Heiliger Geist, Herre Gott" (1524) | |||