Gracious Spirit, Heed Our Pleading, ELW 401
Devotion
The story of Pentecost comes alive for churches that are growing in Africa and Asia. The vitality of the Christian faith is evident in the work of the Spirit amongst large segments of the population in such countries as China, Indonesia, Tanzania and Kenya. We rejoice in this new reality. Those of us that are in the United States and Europe have the opportunity to learn from our brothers and sisters overseas. Mission trips organized by American churches have helped people to understand this and witness the strength of the church, globally.
This hymn comes from Tanzania, where it is sung to the rhythmic beat of drums in native Swahili. It is exhilarating to worship there, to hear the trills of the women and the uninhibited voices of worshipers as they plead for the coming of the Spirit in their midst.
Prayer
We join our brothers and sisters around the globe in pleading for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Help us to follow the lead of Christians from Asia and Africa in lifting up worship and witness as the primary tasks of the church of Jesus, the Christ. Amen.