We Sing of our Redeemer
But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. I Timothy 1:16
One of the great blessings of being an older man is recognizing the patience God has repeatedly shown to me – both in earthly as well as spiritual matters. Whether trying to hang-glide off a barn roof with a sheet of plywood (repeatedly), or questioning God’s plan for my life (even more repeatedly), God has patiently remained faithful and merciful to me.
I’m sure we can all relate to these foolish actions – both earthly and spiritual. We are indeed blessed that God has not angrily walked away saying “as you will”. Rather, God has patiently (and repeatedly) remained with us despite our foolishness and sinfulness. Through His holy Word, the Holy Spirit has reminded us of God’s faithfulness and urged us to sin no more. Despite our foolish and sinful natures, God devised the plan to redeem us from Satan’s clutches and bring us safely into His kingdom. Safe in His faithful and patient love, we look forward to the eternal bliss of heaven.
Awake, my soul, to joyful lays And sing thy great Redeemer’s praise.He justly claims a song from me–His loving-kindness, oh, how free!
He saw me ruined in the Fall, Yet loved me notwithstanding all.He saved me from my lost estate–His loving-kindness, oh, how great!
When I was Satan's easy prey And deep in debt and bondage lay,He paid His life for my discharge–His loving-kindness, oh, how large!
Through mighty hosts of cruel foes, Where earth and hell my way oppose,He safely leads my soul along–His loving-kindness, oh, how strong!
The Lutheran Hymnal 340:1-4 (please read all of this hymn!)