Time Out, Episode 52

Text: Leviticus 4:1-12, 22-35
Hymn: 417, Alleluia, Song of Gladness
Kretzmann Commentary: Leviticus

Most people regard Leviticus as simply one of those old law books that nobody follows any more. As we realize the extent that the old sacrifices point to Christ and the cross, we find out more about the holiness of God and his providence for us. The commentary for this book of law is full of gospel.

Lent is coming, emphasizing the now and not yet of our salvation. It’s time to put away our alleluias for a season.

Alleluia, Song of Gladness

1. Alleluia, song of gladness,
   Voice of joy that cannot die;
   Alleluia is the anthem
   Ever raised by choirs on high;
   In the house of God abiding
   Thus they sing eternally.
2. Alleluia thou resoundest,
   True Jerusalem and free;
   Alleluia, joyful mother,
   All thy children sing with thee;
   But by Babylon’s sad waters
   Mourning exiles now are we.
3. Alleluia cannot always
   Be our song while here below;
   Alleluia, our transgressions
   Make us for a while forgo;
   For the solemn time is coming
   When our tears for sin must flow.
4. Therefore in our hymns we pray Thee,
   Grant us, blessed Trinity,
   At the last to keep Thine Easter
   With Thy faithful saints on high;
   There to Thee forever singing
   Alleluia joyfully.