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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion January 9, 2005 Gathering at the River |
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Frontline Devotion for Sunday, January 9, 2005 By Brenda
Kessler
Scripture: Matthew
3 13-17 and Revelation
22
Today’s scripture reading in Matthew centers around the baptism of our Lord.
My study bible pointed out that all three persons of the trinity are clearly
seen in this scripture reading. In verse sixteen we have “the spirit of
God;” in verse seventeen we read, “This is my son whom I love.” (God
speaking and referring to His Son, Jesus.)
Did the people gathered at the Jordan River realize they would be witnessing the
baptism of God himself? Imagine what it must have been like for those
people gathered at the river.
As I reflected on this passage, a favorite old Baptist hymn, “Shall We Gather
at the River” by Robert Lowery, came to mind. Although it was often used
at baptisms, it is actually a song about heaven. Robert Lowery was
inspired by Revelation 22.1
Shall we gather at the river, where bright angel feet have trod;
With its crystal tide forever flowing by the throne of God?
Refrain: Yes, we’ll gather at the river, the beautiful, the beautiful
river;
Gather with the saints at the river that flows by the throne
of God.
On the margin of the river, washing up its silver spray,
We will walk and worship ever, all the happy golden day.
Refrain
Ere we reach the shining river, lay we every burden down;
Grace our spirits will deliver, and provide a robe and a crown.
Refrain
Soon we’ll reach the shining river, soon our pilgrimage will cease,
Soon our happy hearts will quiver with the melody of peace.
Refrain
I suspect some of the witnesses to Jesus’ baptism might have been singing
“Shall We Gather at the River” had it been written then. Heaven came
down to earth in the River Jordan!
Prayer: Thank you, God, for sending your son, Jesus, to live on earth.
Thank you for the witness of His baptism. Thank you for our baptisms.
Help us to live out our baptisms and help us to support others in their
baptisms. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
1 From “Then Sings My Soul” by Robert Morgan
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