Scripture References:
st. 2 = Mark 4:35-41, Matt. 8:23-27, Luke 8:22-25
st. 3 = Rev. 5:11-12
Marie J. Post (PHH 5) wrote this text in 1970 and entered it in a hymn-writing contest sponsored by the Missionary Monthly magazine (it received honorable mention). It was first published in the Psalter Hymnal Supplement (1974).
The text incites our devotion to God, whose Holy Spirit is active in all Christian work. The Spirit equips us for ministry in the world and produces fruit from our human efforts (st. 2). God in Christ works in us and empowers us to labor in his name (st. 2). The same Spirit who inspires our preaching of God's Word has already revealed to us the great victory song of Revelation 5 and 7 (st. 3).
Liturgical Use:
Pentecost; Epiphany; services that focus on missions or similar kingdom themes (for mission festivals or ecumenical services use the better-known alternate tune ALL SAINTS NEW found at 110).
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook