woman raising her hands

liturgy

Jesus Christ, the love that gives

Jesus Christ, the love that gives love,
You are higher than the highest star;
you are deeper than the deepest sea;
You cherish us as your own family;
You embrace us as your own spouse;
You rule over us as your own subjects;
You welcome us as your dearest friend;
Let all the world worship you.

Holy Spirit, the life that gives life,
You are the cause of all movement;
You are the breath of all creatures;
You are the salve that purifies our souls;
You are the ointment that heals our wounds;
You are the fire that warms our hearts;
You are the light that guides our feet,
Let all the world praise you.

O eternal God,
Turn us into the arms and hands,
The legs and feet
Of you beloved Son, Jesus.
He was with you in heaven
Before the creation of the world.
You created us on earth
To become his living body.
Make us worthy to be his limbs,
And so worthy to share
In his eternal bliss.

HarperCollins Book of Prayers (Castle Books, 1993).