what is an Ebenezer anyway?
reflections on "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing"
Yesterday during divine service we sang the familiar hymn "Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing." After worship, several folks came and asked me about the line that says, "Here I raise mine Ebenezer hither by Thy help I'm come." In essence asking, "What on earth is an Ebenezer anyway?"
Gold . . .
the Transfiguration of our Lord (2024)
contemplating collects
O GOD, who, in the glorious Transfiguration of thy only-begotten Son, hast confirmed the mysteries of the faith by the testimony of the Fathers, and who, in the voice that came from the bright cloud, didst in a wonderful manner foreshow the adoption of sons: Mercifully vouchsafe to make us co-heirs with the King of his glory, . . .
Posted in: collects
on reading God's word
devotional reading vs. Bible study
As mentioned on Sunday, our reading through the Daily Devotional Guide right now pulls together three of the most important books in the Bible: Deuteronomy, Matthew, and Hebrews. These books explain beautifully the redemptive work of God from beginning to end and make beautifully clear connections of old covenant promises to Israel to new . . .
second Sunday after Epiphany (2023)
contemplating collects
ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, Who dost govern all things in heaven and earth; Mercifully hear the supplications of Thy people, and grant us Thy peace all the days of our life; through Thy Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.
-- . . .
Posted in: collects
Epiphany (2024)
contemplating collects
O GOD, Who by the leading of a star didst manifest Thy Only-Begotten Son to the Gentiles; Mercifully grant, that we, who know Thee now by faith, may after this life have the fruition of Thy glorious Godhead; through the same, Thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, . . .
Posted in: collects
an Epiphany home blessing
asking God's blessing for 2024
Christians in the Western Church, especially in Germany--where this custom may have started, have a tradition of blessing their homes on Epiphany (January 6th) by marking the home's main doorway with chalk. The family gathers to ask God's blessing for the next year on their homes, their families, and all who come and go from . . .
Posted in: prayers
first Sunday of Christmas (2023)
contemplating collects
ALMIGHTY and Everlasting God, direct our actions according to Thy good pleasure, that in the Name of Thy beloved Son, we may be made to abound in good works; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.
-- Common Service Book . . .
Posted in: collects
Cover image credit: http://unsplash.com/@jean_vella
