1 Christ, whose purpose is to kindle:
now ignite us with thy fire;
while the earth awaits thy burning,
with thy passion us inspire.
Overcome our sinful calmness,
rouse us with redemptive shame;
baptize with thy fiery Spirit,
crown our lives with tongues of flame.

2 Thou, who still a sword delivers
rather than a placid peace:
with thy sharpened Word disturb us,
from complacency release!
Save us now from satisfaction
when we privately are free,
yet are undisturbed in spirit
by our neighbor's misery.

3 Thou, who in thy holy Gospel
wills that we should truly live:
make us sense our share of failure,
our tranquility forgive.
Teach us courage as we struggle
in all liberating strife;
lift the smallness of our vision
by thine own abundant life.