Superhero

Our Devotion this week from Luther Seminary.

It seems there is a new superhero movie every other month. These films tell stories about individuals who can fly, control time, run at incredible speeds, and lift buildings. They paint a picture of what it is like to be “super.”

O Come O Come Emmanuel reminds us of God’s might. But God’s might is different than that displayed in our superhero movies. God’s power goes beyond the kinds of abilities that are highlighted in those stories. God’s might is an upside-down kind of power that takes what might not be considered valuable and gives it importance. God’s might isn’t limited to God’s own action, but also works through those God has created. God uses power to love, transform, and redeem the world God created. The mighty God chooses to become one of us, to embrace suffering and death, in order to restore right relationship with us and the world. Now that’s a superhero!

God is always coming down to us. There is nothing we can do to earn our way into God’s heart. There are ways, however to be heroes to others through honoring God. Pause this season, pay it forward at a drive through, give some change to the red kettles of the Salvation Army, bake something for your neighbors (especially ones you don’t know), rake the leaves, smile in the grocery store, or give a loved one a hug and let them know they are loved by you.

Here is a prayer you might find helpful this week:
Powerful God, help us understand the way you use power in the world you love. Give us a picture of how your love defines your might. Thank you for using your power to create eternal relationship with us. Amen.