A Hymn for Neighbors Seeking Asylum

When children scream from tear gas where they’ve been told to wait,
when signs tell families, “Don’t pass!” outside our nation’s gate—
O Lord who welcomed children and loves each little one,
we cry, “Where is compassion?” We pray, “What have we done?”

When neighbors seek asylum as days and weeks drag on,
when they dream dreams of freedom while we make fences strong—
O Lord who said God’s kingdom will welcome those in need,
we cry, “Where is the welcome? What have we done, indeed?”

When travelers on their journey walk on, on blistered feet,
as they look for a country where peace and justice meet—
If faith can topple mountains, Lord, what will churches do?
Will we reach to the suffering? Will we, in them, see you?

We ask, “What should we do here? Are we our neighbors’ friends?”
The challenge isn’t new here; you've shown how love extends.
May we cry out for justice till others need not cry.
May love become our witness till no one waits outside.

Biblical References: Leviticus 19:34; Deuteronomy 10:19; Jeremiah 22:3; Malachi 3:5; Matthew 18:1-6; Matthew 19:13-15; Matthew 25:35; Mark 9:37; Mark 10:13-16; Luke 18: 15-17; Romans 12:13; Hebrews 13:2
Tune: Hans Leo Hassler, 1601; harmony by Johann Sebastian Bach, 1729. PASSION CHORALE 7.6.7.6 D ("O Sacred Head, Now Wounded")
Text: Copyright © 2018 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.
Email: bcgillette@comcast.net New Hymns: www.carolynshymns.com