Light Shining Out of Darkness

Descriptor: 
This resource relating to Isaiah 51:1-6 provides a poem by William Cowper (1731-1800) highlighting the trusting of God's mysterious ways and a poem by Scott Cairns highlighting God's response to prayers.
Paid Resource: 
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Lectionary: 
Revised Common Lectionary
Source: 
Englewood Review
Related to Children or Youth: 
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Audio/Video: 
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Full Text: 
*** Revised Common Lectionary *** Lectionary Reading: Isaiah 51:1-6 CLASSIC POEM: Light Shining out of Darkness William Cowper 1 God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform; He plants his footsteps in the sea, And rides upon the storm. 2 Deep in unfathomable mines Of never-failing skill, He treasures up his bright designs, And works his sov’reign will. 3 Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take, The clouds ye so much dread Are big with mercy, and shall break In blessings on your head. 4 Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, But trust him for his grace; Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face. 5 His purposes will ripen fast, Unfolding ev’ry hour; The bud may have a bitter taste, But sweet will be the flow’r. 6 Blind unbelief is sure to err, And scan his work in vain; God is his own interpreter, And he will make it plain. *** This poem is in the public domain, and may be read in a live-streamed worship service. CONTEMPORARY POEM: Possible Answers to Prayer Scott Cairns Snippet: Your petitions—though they continue to bear just the one signature—have been duly recorded. … [ READ THE FULL POEM ]
Author: 
role: 
Primary Author
Author: 
William Cowper
role: 
Primary Author
Author: 
Scott Cairns
Content Type: 
Key Scriptures: 
Isaiah 51:1-6
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RCL Lectionary Week: 
Year A Proper 16 (Ordinary Time 21)
Date: 
Monday, August 21, 2023