hymn for Pentecost

hymn for Pentecost: written to be sung to the tune "Thaxted" (13.13.13.13.13.13)



Come, Spirit, dwell within us, make in our hearts your nest;
Come, Paraclete of power, the wisest and the best:
Bring strength and consolation for lives that are your own;
To minds and hearts give wisdom that Christ be truly known.
With wind and flame surround us; in still, small voice be heard,
That ev'ry soul be burnished with Jesus' living Word.

Come, Spirit of the prophets, who fed their voice of flame,
Inspiring them to witness to God's most holy Name:
Bring fortitude and courage to all that seek the Truth,
That lives of faith be called forth from elder and from youth.
Warm those whose ardent teaching has chilled with passing time;
Raise all whose steps have stumbled to heights of love sublime.

Come, Spirit of the Savior, and rouse our torpid heart
With grace from God our Father, and nevermore depart!
In fear that leads to wisdom, come now, O heav'nly Dove,
That wayward hearts be chastened and filled instead with love!
For ev'ry soul you've branded, our empty depths now plumb:
With all your gifts supplying, come, Holy Spirit, come!

J. Michael Thompson
Bright Wednesday, revised Bright Thursday twice
April 19, 2006
Pittsburgh