Paternoster

I'm really enjoying Bob's current sermon series, as he preaches through the Lord's Prayer [sermon podcasts are being uploaded to UCF website] Recently I have come across a hymn by a Filipino [Daniel Thambyrajah Niles 1908-1970] He said it was inspired by the Lord's Prayer.

Father in heaven, grant to your children

Mercy and blessing, songs ever ceasing;

Love to unite us, grace to redeem us,

Loving Creator, parent and God.

Jesus, Redeemer, help us remember

Your gracious passion, your resurrection:

Your call to follow, your love tomorrow,

Jesus, Redeemer, our friend and Lord

Spirit descending, your light unending,

Brings hope and healing, is truth revealing:

Dispel our blindness, inspire our kindness,

Spirit descending, Spirit adored.

It was composed in 1961, and the tune Halad [which means 'offering'] was written by another Filipino, Elena Maquiso. Click here to listen to the tune - I think all offering tunes should be joyful - in too many churches, people sit there glumly putting their pennies in the plate as if they were doing their Tax Returns!