Written by Rev. Carolyn Winfrey Gillette
Rev. Carolyn Winfrey Gillette has written a beautiful new hymn titled “A Prophet Has a Lonely Task,” which references Matthew 10:40-42, and reflects on seeking peace and justice for God’s people and earth. Download the hymn. Permission is given for free local church use of this new hymn to congregations that support the PC(USA) Environmental Ministries Office.
Thanks to Rev. Gillette for sharing the hymn, the lyrics to which are below. Find more of Rev. Gillette’s earth care hymns on her website.
A Prophet Has a Lonely Task
WAREHAM LM (“The Church of Christ in Every Age”)
A prophet has a lonely task—
To help the world to see anew,
To name injustice, then to ask
What God is calling us to do.
On city streets among the poor,
In places spoiled for oil or coal,
At yet another time of war,
A prophet seeks the nation’s soul.
O Lord, you taught us: Hear their shout!
Receive their call to turn from sin!
When others seek to shut them out,
The church must welcome prophets in.
For in our welcome, Lord, we’ll find
A living faith, a new world-view,
A life more peaceful, just and kind,
A church that gladly welcomes you.
Biblical Reference: Matthew 10:40-42
Tune: William Knapp, 1738.
Alternate Tune: CANONBURY LM (“Lord, Speak to Me, That I May Speak”)
Text: Copyright © 2011 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.
Email: bcgillette@comcast.net Web site: www.carolynshymns.com