MORNING HYMN

For some reason I have had this hymn going through my mind this morning, it is quite modern and has a pleasant tune:

God is here! As we his people

meet to offer praise and prayer,

may we find in fuller measure

what it is in Christ we share.

Here, as in the world around us,

all our varied skills and arts

wait the coming of the Spirit

into open minds and hearts.

Here are symbols to remind us

of our lifelong need of grace;

here are table, font, and pulpit;

here the cross has central place.

Here in honesty of preaching,

here in silence, as in speech,

here, in newness and renewal,

God the Spirit comes to each.

Here our children find a welcome

in the Shepherd's flock and fold,

here as bread and wine are taken,

Christ sustains us, as of old.

Here the servants of the Servant

seek in worship to explore

what it means in daily living

to believe and to adore.

Lord of all, of Church and Kingdom,

in an age of change and doubt,

keep us faithful to the gospel,

help us work your purpose out.

Here, in this day's dedication,

all we have to give, receive;

we, who cannot live without you,

we adore you! We believe!

Fred Pratt Green (1903-2000)

From Singing The Faith