In a world filled with criticism, competition, and harshness, isn’t it a total gift from God to know that his caring, loving, calming, gentle Spirit is there for us? In the hymn for today, God’s Spirit is described as calling and free. The song reminds us that the Holy Spirit can stir us, open our eyes, and fill us with boldness in our faith.

Scripture:

Acts 2:17 In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.

Acts 7:51 You stubborn and stiff-necked people, still heathen and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you are always actively resisting the Holy Spirit. As your forefathers, so you!

Song:  “Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness” – Words and music by James K. Manley, 1978

Chorus: Spirit, spirit of gentleness.
Blow through the wilderness, calling and free.
Spirit, spirit of restlessness. Stir me from placidness.
Wind, wind on the sea.

1. You moved on the waters, You called to the deep,
Then You coaxed up the mountains. From the valley of sleep,
And over the eons You called to each thing,
“A wake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.” Repeat Chorus

2. You swept through the dessert, You stung with the sand,
And You gifted your people With a law and a land,
And when they were blinded With their idols and lies,
Then You spoke through Your prophets To open their eyes. Repeat Chorus

3. You sang in a stable, You cried from a hill,
Then You whispered in silence When the whole world was still,
And down in the city You called once again
When You blew through Your people On the rush of the wind. Repeat Chorus

4. You call from tomorrow, You break ancient schemes,
From the bondage of sorrow The captives dream dreams;
Our women see visions, Our men clear their eyes.
With bold new decisions Your people arise. Repeat Chorus