Thursday of Lent 1

Thursday of Lent 1, 22 February 2018 Psalm 138

Psalm 138— is a royal song of praise for God’s saving help against threatening foes. In many respects it is like Psalm 18 though it is more concise and direct. Two Hebrew four-line stanzas (Vv. 1-3, 6-8) develop the main theme; at the center a two line stanza (Vv. 4-5) expands the praise of the Lord to a universal company of earth’s royalty.

The beginning three verses and ending two verses of this psalm of David are David’s vow to praise the Lord for His deliverance and protection. The middle three verses, call upon all the kings of the earth to give thanks and sing of the ways and the glory of the LORD. His love and mercy extend to all peoples of all time. Christ is the Redeemer of the entire world. 

Hymn: In the Cross of Christ I Glory (Lutheran Service Book 427:1)

In the cross of Christ I glory

Tow’ring o’er the wrecks of time

All the light of sacred story

Gathers round its head sublime.

Multiply Thy strength, O Lord, in the souls of Thy humble servants, that while we ever worship Thee in Thy holy temple, we may, together with Thy holy angels, rejoice in beholding Thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with Thee and the Holy Ghost, One God, world without end. Amen . 1

Strengthen us, O Lord, by Your grace, that in Your might we may overcome all spiritual enemies, and with pure hearts serve You through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen. 2

 1. © 2005 Lutheran Liturgical Prayer Brotherhood

 2. Collect for Thursday of Lent 1, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm