Daily Devotion – May 20, 2021 – The Rev. John Klawiter

Romans 8:22-27 (NRSV)

We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen?But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

VLikewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

Devotion

This January, our church hosted an online women’s retreat hosted by Deacon Nina. One of the byproducts of this time was an abundance of artwork and creativity. Pictures emerged from attendees who we had no idea were artistically gifted.

Our worship team asked the rest of the congregation to express their artistic talents too. Submissions began pouring in just in time for Ash Wednesday and Lent. We used those images during a weekly prayer video while listening to the Apostle Paul’s words to those Romans long ago: “The spirit intercedes for us, with sighs too deep for words to express.” The Spirit provided our church with an unexpected gift—in a medium that we typically wouldn’t think to use in worship. The healing power of art was an impactful expression that could be shared with so many people. In the weaknesses and groaning of this time apart, the Spirit interceded with an opportunity that provided healing.

Prayer

Interceding Spirit, allow our creative minds to flourish as we look for ways to express our deep love and admiration for all that you do in our lives. Amen.