Be Present, God of Love, Draw Near

Be present, God of love, draw near
among your people gathered here
to watch and witness what we say,
the promises we make today.
As long ago you gave a sign
in water Jesus turned to wine,
reveal your loving power now
and bless us in our holy vow.

In times of sickness and good health,
in poverty, abundant wealth,
in joys and sorrows we may know,
in springtime joy and autumn glow,
we pledge our loyalty and love
and pray your Spirit, like a dove,
may fall upon us as we stand
before you now, joined hand in hand.

God, when we find in later life,
that conflicts lead us into strife,
may we be honest, patient, kind
in sharing what is on our mind;
and when we differ, even fight,
one saying "wrong," the other "right,"
give us the wit to recognize
that love may need to compromise.

Grant us your eyes of love to see
the person each was meant to be
reflected in the other's face:
a child of God, a gift of grace,
a person worthy of respect,
a life to cherish and protect,
a steadfast, loyal, trusted friend,
beloved now and to life's end.


Source: The Song Lingers On: new hymns for our journey of faith #14