Whatever You Do

My dear friend's church is one of those which has endured major damage from Hurricane Irene. I offer up this hymn as a prayer for their community and for all those affected by severe weather, systemic problems, and other difficult circumstances - and as a prayer for all those in the position to serve them.

May you realize the blaze of light in even your darkest situation. May you realize the magnitude of the light you have to share.

Blessings, all.

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"Whatever You Do"
(by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette,
inspired by Matthew 25:31-46)

"Whatever you do to the least ones of these,
I tell you in truth that you do unto me!"
Lord Jesus, you taught us! May we learn anew
That when we serve others, we also serve you.

When poor, waiting children pray hunger will end,
When those long-forgotten cry out for a friend,
When thirsty ones whisper, "O Lord, where are you?"
We hear, in their longing, that you’re calling, too.

In prisons and jails, Lord, we find a surprise;
We see you in people whom others despise.
At hospital bedsides we offer a prayer
And find, when we visit the sick, you are there.

When we reach to others in flood-stricken lands
And offer our hearts there, and offer our hands--
We notice, Lord Jesus, the gift of your grace:
We see, in the crowds of the suffering, your face.

"Lord, when did we see you?" Your teaching is clear
That when we serve others, we're serving you here.
And when your church heeds you and helps those in pain,
Then out of the chaos, hope rises again.


Lyrics by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette
Copyright © 2008
Photo of Carolyn from http://www.hymntime.com/