Joshua 1:1-9

“This is my command — be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, NLT)

I don’t know about you, but one of the things that helps me to remember God’s presence with me in the midst of my fear is music. I have been inspired this entire season by the words of hymns and poems that speak of the power of faith, hope, and love, grounded in Christ. As my part in this year’s devotion ends, I leave you with these words from George Herbert, which represent my prayer for all the faithful who await Christ’s coming again.

Come, my way, my truth, my life:
such a way as gives us breath;
such a truth as ends all strife;
such a life as killeth death.

Come, my light, my feast, my strength:
such a light as shows a feast;
such a feast as mends in length;
such a strength as makes his guest.

Come, my joy, my love, my heart:
such a joy as none can move;
such a love as none can part;
such a heart as joys in love.

Amen and amen.

– Pastor Andrew Chavanak, St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELCA), Falls City