As the earth brings forth its blossom
and a garden pushes its seeds toward the sun
So will the Lord God make saving justice and praise
spring up before all the nations.
God will make even the mountains and hills
break into cries of joy,
And lead his people forth in safety and peace.
(adapted from Isaiah 61:11, 55:12)
O Source of life,
who has planted in our hearts
the desire for a new and better land,
we give thanks to you this day
for the shining brightness of immortal light in Jesus Christ.
His footsteps among us have hallowed this earth,
yet he has called us to a kingdom not of this world.
May we be raised up in the power of his spirit,
from confusion, indifference, and hatred
to a life illuminated with righteousness.
And, when our souls shrink before the mysteries of life and death,
may we be comforted
by the thought of that immortal love
that knows no change
and trust that, whether we live or die,
we are forever your children.
(adapted from Hymns of the Spirit, Thirteenth Order of Service [Easter])