Hymns by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette

Up On a Mountaintop
SLANE 10.10.9.10 (Be Thou My Vision)

Up on a mountaintop, Jesus sat down,
Teaching the people who gathered around:
Look for the blessings that God kindly brings;
God's loving kingdom is changing all things.

You are the salt and you're also the light.
Flavor God's world, with your faith shining bright.
Know that I've come here, God's word to fulfill.
Keep the commandments and follow them well.

Let go of anger, for it is a sin.
It will destroy you, both outside and in.
Even your thinking can lead you astray;
Whatever tempts you, just throw it away.

Keep strong the bonds between husband and wife;
Keep your commitments for all of your life.
Don't swear by heaven or by earth below;
Let "yes" be "yes" then,
and let "no" be "no."

If any hurt you, then you may resist,
But not with hatred or weapon or fist.
God's way is stronger than any you face;
Stand up and love them! And give them God's grace.

Love those who hate you and pray for them, too.
God's mercy reaches out far beyond you.
Seek, as God's people, God's wholeness each day
So you can witness to God's perfect way.

This hymn is part of "The Sermon on the Mount: A Worship Service of Lessons and Songs" by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette that is patterned after the "Service of Lessons and Carols for Christmas." The new service is based on Jesus' teachings in Matthew 5-7 interspersed with stanzas of four new hymns based on these teachings. "The Sermon on the Mount" is the source of the lectionary gospel readings for January 30th through February 27th; this whole service could be used on any of those Sundays or at another time.

This service and a complete list of Carolyn's hymns can be found at www.carolynshymns.com.