Scripture References:
st. 1 = Acts 1:8
st. 2 = 2 Cor. 5:18-21

Marie J. Post (PHH 5) originally wrote this text for a Pentecost hymn contest sponsored by the Missionary Monthly magazine in 1969. Although it was not the contest winner (of the two winners one was "Sweet Gift of God" by Post), this text was first published in the May 1970 issue of that magazine and later in the Psalter Hymnal Supplement (l974). It gained popularity because of its use as a theme hymn for mission conferences.

The text affirms the work of the Holy Spirit in the missionary enterprise of the church. Our missions task reaches from our immediate surroundings (st. 2) to the remotest regions of the world (st. 1); it requires a selfless use of our varied skills and resources (st. 3).

Liturgical Use:
Pentecost season; services that focus on the missionary task of the church; ordination of missionaries and evangelists; as a teaching hymn about commitment to missions.

--Psalter Hymnal Handbook