Author: Mary Nelson Keithahn Hymnal: The Song Lingers On #8 (2003) Meter: 8.6.8.6 D Scripture: Acts 2:17 Lyrics: Where lilies of the field once bloomedthe land is mined for war,and signs warn people not to walkwhere they have walked before.Between the houses shelters standon guard against attack.Is this our children’s legacy?Is there no turning back?Where songbirds sang sweet melodiesthe hills in silence stand,save for the mournful winds that blowacross a sea of sand.The trees that held the soil are gone,the streams that once flowed free.Is barren desert wildernessour children’s legacy?A soldier, older than his age,says, “Tell me, tell me, pray,Must I stand guard forever orwill there be peace some day?Will new streams flow, the desert bloom,the hills again rejoicewith joyful songs and laughter, anda small child’s happy voice?â€What answer can we give him, God?Will war and fighting cease,and spears and swords be turned at lastinto the tools of peace,or will self-righteous foes prevail,despite our children’s cries,and violence erupt againbefore their very eyes?Our children share your vision, God,they dream your prophets’ dreamsof mountain forests, fertile fields,and everflowing streams,of peaceful homes where neighbors noware enemies no more.We pray they do not hope in vain.God, bring an end to war. Topics: Peace and Justice Palestine/Israel conflict Tune Title: PLEA FOR PEACE
Where Lilies of the Field Once Bloomed