For all with heavy loads to bear
1 For all with heavy loads to bear,
with calls to serve, protect and care,
whose work and life bring hard demands,
with others’ welfare in their hands,
Lord, help them thrive in all they face,
upheld by your all-loving grace.
2 For all who find their work to be
a test of their integrity,
in contracts brokered, deals secured,
in choices faced and stress endured,
Lord, grant to them the strength they need,
to follow you in word and deed.
3 For all who long for work and pay
to buy enough to live each day,
when skills are offered yet ignored,
and patience reaps no real reward,
Lord, where we only see despair
send purpose, hope and justice there.
4 For all whose work is never done,
whose call is answered in the home,
frustration, tiredness, love and care
combine to build the kingdom there,
Lord, give to all whose work is love
your inspiration from above.
5 In all we think and say and do
our lives are holy, Lord, to you;
in every labour, great or small
be evermore our all in all.
In all our actions, Lord, we pray,
work through us this and every day.
Tune: Melita
words © Ally Barrett / Jubilate
