“Come, O Spirit, Holy Longing”

Come, O Spirit, holy longing    in our work and in our play,
In our silences and singing   where we learn how best to pray.
Stir simplicity within us,   from our doubts and fears release;
Lure us in your web of justice,   lead us forth into your peace.

For these waters which anoint us   in our death as in our life,
We give thanks and ask for courage    to endure the pain and strife.
O sweet Jesus, how you seek us   through immensities of space!
Root your presence in this gath’ring,   your indwelling of this place.

Come, O flame of deep compassion!    Light our way in every hour.
Lift us toward your radiant future,   shine within us saving power.
Heal your broken-hearted people   with the gift of Gilead’s balm.
Seal us by your healing welcome,   blessing waters wild and calm.

Now let one hand touch another,   linking lives in living praise.
Teach us how to do your justice,   loving kindness all our days,
Walking humbly in your Spirit    ’till we see your shining face:
Birthing us into the passion   of your life transforming grace.

Tune: Nettleton (8.7.8.7.D); intended to be sung with the hymn melody for "Come, O Fount of Every Blessing" (New Century Hymnal 459).

A new hymn by Mark S. Burrows, ©2009; written in celebration of the
Pilgrim Church of Lexington, UCC for a festival jazz worship service