Friday, July 24, 2015

123. Labor Hymn

I thought of doing this hymn partly as a counterpoint to the preceding "Agriculture Hymn," and partly as a nice addition to a daily morning prayer service before going to work. The tune I had in mind was Johann Crüger's O WIE SELIG.
God, whose labor set the planets spinning,
Bless our work today at its beginning,
Our burden easing
That our labor's fruit may be found pleasing!

Christ, who earned our pardon by Your labor,
Help us share the burden of our neighbor,
Our work perfecting
And our heart to others' need directing!

Spirit, manifest in flame and blowing,
Work in us that faith beyond mere knowing,
Our hearts transforming,
And in us the works of God performing!

Triune Lord, at work in glory splendid,
Strengthen us until our work is ended;
Then reunite us
And with gifts of perfect grace delight us!

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