We Look Outward, God of Blessing!

We Look Outward, God of Blessings!

In Honor of Carnegie Samuel Calian

- President of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary -
On the occasion of his retirement – January 26, 2006

Meter: 8.7.8.7.D. – Suggested tune: BEECHER

I.
We look outward, God of blessing, as we seek to serve and teach!
Guiding learners, leading leaders; help us, God, extend our reach!
May we join with Christ in doing, deeds of kindness, acts of care!
Aim us higher, peace perusing: This, our promise! This, our prayer!


II.
We look inward, God of ages, Your great gift of joy to find!
You delight life’s serried stages, You enlighten humankind!
Jesus, fill us, Jesus lead us, till Your freedom, all may know;
Thankfulness, that You provide us, is for us to share and show!


III.
We look back, God of creation, not with sorrow or regret,
But with deep appreciation, for the days none will forget!
Give us all a holy yearning, to embrace what we receive,
Boundless blessing, love and learning: Ours to hold! Ours to believe!

IV.
We go onward, God of Glory, grateful for Your witnesses;
All who clasp and claim Your story, with compassion’s selflessness!
Give us their determination! May we live as salt and light:
Light, to banish trepidation. Salt, to season with delight!.

V.
We look forward, God of Heaven, to a time beyond today;
For, the hope that You have given, points to the ascending way!
As our faith forms each endeavor, may our acts, this world, restore;
Grant us, God, to waver never: We go forward, evermore!


Copyright © 2006, John A. Dalles.

Permission for use in worship is granted to Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and to Dr. Calian.

Permission granted for one time use in worship as noted above.

Please let me know if you sing this hymn text.