Watchword for this first week in Lent: For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. (1.John 3:8b)
Psalm of this week: „He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.“ (Ps.91:1-2.11-12)
The readings for this first Sunday in Lent (Invocavit) are:
- Old Testament: Genesis 3:1-19 (20-24)
- The Epistle: Hebrews 4:14-16
- The Gospel: St. Matthew 4:1-11
The liturgical colour is purple.
The hymn for this week is from the Lutheran Hymnal 262:
- A mighty fortress is our God, a trusty shield and weapon;
He helps us free from every need that hath us now overtaken.
The old evil foe now means deadly woe; deep guile and great might
Are his dread arms in fight; on Earth is not his equal. - With might of ours can naught be done, soon were our loss effected;
But for us fights the Valiant One, whom God Himself elected.
Ask ye, who is this? Jesus Christ it is.
Of Zebbaoth Lord, and there’s none other God;
He holds the field forever. - Though devils all the world should fill, all eager to devour us.
We tremble not, we fear no ill, they shall not overpower us.
This world’s prince may still scowl fierce as he will,
He can harm us none, he’s judged; the deed is done;
One little word can fell him. - The Word they still shall let remain nor any thanks have for it;
He’s by our side upon the plain with His good gifts and Spirit.
And take they our life, goods, fame, child and wife,
Let these all be gone, they yet have nothing won;
The Kingdom ours remaineth.
Martin Luther 1483-1546
We pray with this collect: „O Lord, mercifully hear our prayer and stretch out the right hand of Your majesty to defend us from them that rise up against us; through Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.” (TLH 62)
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