Look Beyond Look beyond the corner ahead; see the world that calls you instead. Like the fruitful branches joined by the vine, so we see our lives intertwine. Put aside the tranquil and sweet; find the light in people you greet. For the lives we lead aren't solely our own; what we plant will some day have grown. Leave behind the inward concern; there is so much more to discern. When we cling too long to days that have gone, can we grasp the work to be done? When our children call from the streets, will we join their dancing and beat? Or like sleeping servants tending the gate, will we slumber 'til it's too late? Rise above the worry of loss; when we love, we take up our cross. So return with kindness even the hurt; let a flower bloom from the dirt. Reach across the bound'ries and walls and extend your welcome to all. In our neighbour's face, God's image is found, and the living Spirit abounds. *As we join to honour our past, may we cherish treasures that last. We are not alone; so answer God's call as the Spirit works through us all. Then united, let us declare, that the faithful story we share is to hear the voiceless, wounded and frail, and reach out, so love may prevail. *This optional verse was written to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the United Church of Canada Text © Allan Baer, 2014-15 290 Indian Rd. Kingston ON Canada K7M 1T8 email: ab25@queensu.ca web site: http://www.crossroadsunited.ca/spirit