"God's Beloved Thief Approaches"
/Here’s a hymn inspired by Matthew 24:36-44. It is written in 8.7.8.7 D and, while it can be sung to many tunes, BEECHER is recommended. Matthew 24:36-44 shows up in the Revised Common Lectionary for the 1st Sunday of Advent (Year A).
Permission is given for use in congregational worship. Please give the following credit: "Copyright 2019 Stephen M. Fearing | www.stephenmfearing.com"
Click here for a pdf of this hymn using BEECHER.
God’s beloved thief approaches in the unexpected hour.
Night or day, we know not when, but he will come in grace and power.
We endeavor to protect from thieves that come to violate.
There’s no need to stop this burglar; he breaks in to liberate.
Maybe he will free us from the fears that feed on human sin:
Those that help elect the racists, fears that let the cruelty in.
Maybe this beloved thief will rid God’s children of their hate,
And replace their fighting folly with the love that cannot wait.
Maybe he will steal corruption, that which sows the seeds of greed.
In its stead he’ll grow God’s justice, plants that feed the ones in need.
Maybe this beloved thief will carry off our selfishness,
Ban our policies of violence, end our sinful negligence.
Maybe he will take our weapons, making plowshares from our guns.
Preaching peace to all the nations, saving God’s most precious ones.
Maybe this beloved thief is someone we should welcome in.
Fling the doors between us open! Tell the world that love will win!