Here I am Lord

I am preparing for leading Bible study tonight. The first part of this week is focused on being called to redeem, or our role in carrying out God's redemptive plan. It got me thinking about my favorite old hymn, Here I am, Lord. I can remember being so young, like six or seven at the oldest, and singing this song to myself or being so delighted when it would be included in mass. It's hung with me through everything - my many years outside of the church, my doubts, everything. Whenever I would feel really lost or alone, I would sing this song.

So here it is (lyrics below):

I, the Lord of sea and sky,
I have heard my people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin,
My hand will save.

I who make the stars of night,
I will make their darkness bright.
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?

Chorus:

Here I am, Lord. It is I Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night.
I will go, Lord, where you lead me.
I will hold your people in my heart.

I, the Lord of snow and rain,
I have borne my people’s pain.
I have wept for love of them.
They turn away.

I will break their hearts of stone,
Give them hearts for love alone.
I will speak my words to them.
Whom shall I send?

(chorus)

I, the Lord of wind and flame,
I will tend the poor and lame.
I will set a feast for them.
My hand will save.

Finest bread I will provide,
Till their hearts be satisfied.
I will give my life to them.
Whom shall I send?

(chorus)