Songs and Hymns for Proper 21A / Ordinary 26A / Pentecost +17 (September 27 2026)

Exodus 17:1-7
God delivers water from the rock to the grumbling Israelites.

• TLUS101 The people of God / O povo de Deus (Pedro Casaldaliga, Brazil) This excellent song speaks of God's people stumbling through the desert, crying out "in between faith and doubting" and God's provision of manna. "We, too, are your people O god, on this daring journey". Really worth learning, particularly as we read through Exodus this year. Sound samples in Portuguese and in English. Lyrics and chords. 
• Online Resource Meroo / Water seeping up outta the ground (Nelson Varcoe, Kaurna, Australia) The Dharug / Tharwal word "Meroo" means water. Simple chorus and good words about the importance of water, and a chorus about the rising of the Holy Spirit, carrying our prayers up to the sky. Book available here (BUC people, I have this!).
• Online Resource/ BUC Song Project Broken (Elaine Loukes, Australia) This song seeking God's open arms at the end of a dry journey fits this reading well.  Lyrics, sound sample, and sheet music.
• Tune In / Online Resource / ATAR663 Save us in the time of trial (Shawn Whelan, Australia) A song with a reflective almost-Taize-like chorus. We have sung this a cuople of different ways, it's quite flexible. I will suggest this quite a bit during Lent. Lyrics, sound sample and free downloadable songbook.
• Online Resource Thirsty we wander the desert / Even from rock (David Bjorlin, USA / Mark Miller, USA) An excellent new song - easy and energising to sing. It really identifies with the wandering Israelites and our own thirst for salvation. Sheet music sample and purchasing options. Sound sample.
• Online Resource / VT035 Come to the water living water / Desert Alleluia (Carol Ann Weaver, Canada) This is great and would be such fun to sing on many occasions. Worth taking the time to teach it to a congregation. For our congregation, I think this would work very well as we move to the baptism font. Sound sample, lyrics, purchasing options (choral version).   
• Online Resource / GtG053 O God who gives us life and breath (Carl P Daw, USA) Excellent words of God providing living springs of hope, and the need for us to face our fears and follow God through difficult times. An excellent fit for this reading. Straightforward hymn tune (NOEL). Sheet music and lyrics. New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource / AoV2-006 / The tide has turned Deeper River / There's a river running deep within the silence of our souls (Digby Hannah, Australia) An excellent song of restoration for tired desert-like souls. Sound sample and purchasing options.
• ATW 435 Wellsprings / Like the woman of old (Don Stewart, Australia) Another song of seeking water in the desert. A favourite of our congregation; can be tricky to sing if it's not familiar. Sound sample.
• NCH045 Christ is the Mountain of Horeb which is flowing / Cristo es la pena (Unknown author, Puerto Rico) Puerto Rican pasodoble folk melody. Very repetitive and easy. Can start slow and get fast, which is always a winner move. We have not sung this for a while, but it's fun. Youtube of some cool pianist doing a groovy jazzy version. Good for kids.
• TiS 569 / AHB 478 / NCH18/19 / CH167 / UMH127 / VU651 / LBW343 / ELW618 / StF465 / A&M652 / HPP432 / GtG065 / PH281 / CP565 / CP(E) 455 / W&R501 / Cha622 / 82Hml690 / StF465 / Lau960 / MP201 Guide me O thou great Jehovah / Redeemer (William Williams, Wales) A rousing hymn of God’s presence and strength and making it to the other side. "Bread of heaven, feed me now and evermore." Sheet music and lyrics. Oldy-but-a-goody.
• AoV1-114 / HPP376 / G(II)430 / GC608 / GC(II)596 / G(3)683 / W&R430 / Lau964 You shall cross the barren desert / Be not afraid (Bob Dufford, USA) Beautiful words. Well known (at least, the chorus). Verses may be tricky. Lyrics.
• CH191 When you Walk through the waters I’ll be with you / Do Not Be Afraid (Gerard Markland, England) A simple and very singable song. Thanks to Bud for this suggestion. Lyric video.

Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16 
Keeping the history alive; telling it to the children.
See above and:

• TiS 41 / United Methodist Psalter We shall listen, Lord, to your teaching (Timothy Kimbrough) A fairly formal cantor and response Psalm. It requires a confident leader as the response is not completely intuitive. The verses can be read or sung by a leader. Lyrics (downloads an order of service).
• Cha330 Alleluia Hear God's Story (Mary Anne Parrott) Good words of a community that reaches out together to a familiar carol tune. Talks of the importance of telling the story. I think this picks up on the idea of sharing the faith story through all generations. I would love to know if there are other songs about telling the story to children and the next generation. Lyrics (downloads a PDF). New words to old tunes.
• ATW 474 You're like the sun that warms me / Bread of angels (Robin Mann) This is a nice ballad, a favourite of many in our congregation. It may not be easy for a congregation without some introduction because the structure is a little tricky. Lyrics and sound sample.
• VU792 We will tell new generations (Joachim Neander) Very simple hymn-based Psalm refrain with responsive Psalm. Sheet music sample.
• Online Resource / TiS 182 / AoV2-010 / CH134 / CP395 / GtG760 / HPP13 / NCH011  / SFFS 2047 / VF106 / VT134 / VU268 Bring many names beautiful and good (Brian Wren, USA) This is a beautiful song with a wide variety of images for God that provoke reflection. Because it has so many images, it's also very long (especially if sung too slowly). Try singing one verse unison, then one women, one men (or different sides of the church, or different ages), then all together again, to give people a chance to list and reflect on what they are singing. Lyrics and sheet music. 
• PfAS078E We will tell each generation (Michael Perry)  A good metrical version of the Psalm set to the Sacred Harp tune RESTORATION. Lyrics. New words to old tunes.
• TOSB093 / NCH522 / UMH156 / VU343 / LBW390 / ELW661 / HPP463 / GtG462 / W&R560 / Cha480 / VF125 I love to tell the story of unseen things above (Katharine Hankey) This is an older style hymn, more well known in the USA than Australia, and might be a good choice for this lesson; probably use only the first two verses. Lyrics (including some less frequently sung verses). Thanks to Ken Wells for the suggestion. 
• Online Resource / GtG632 / PfAS078A People of the Lord (Greg Scheer) It's in 7/8! What more do you need! Oh, and the words are good, with an echo in the verses. This would be fun. Sheet music and sound sample.
• Emergent Psalter Give your ears my people to the lessons of the past (Isaac Everett) A good, slightly solemn Psalm refrain. Book available here. 
• TiS 636 / VU272 / WoV715 / LBW250 / ELW533 / GtG453 / PfAS078C / PfAS078D / URW076 / 82Hml-536 / MP182 God has spoken to his people Alleluia / God has spoken to the people Alleluia (Hasidic traditional) In many versions this song is not inclusive for God, or uses specifically Christian lyrics (which is odd, since it's a Jewish hymn). VU, PfAS GtG and WoV have gender inclusive language for God: "God has spoken to the people (Alleluia), God has spoken words of wisdom, Alleluia". WoV and PfAS also have the traditional Hebrew chorus of "Torah ora torah ora hallelujah" which means "The Lord is light" and would be great to sing; and it's the original words!  PfAS078D simply uses the first two lines of the first verse as a psalm refrain. Choral sound sample with more inclusive lyrics, an awesome organist and great tambourine action.

Alternate Hebrew Scripture Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32
Israel is grumbling again. God says to "turn, then, and live".

• Tune In / Online Resource We will sing a new song to the world (Dave Brown, Australia) It makes me think of being joyous when everyone around you sounds like a grumbling Israelite in the desert. Lyrics, sound sample and free downloadable songbook.
• MV064 Because you came (Shirley Murray, Aotearoa / New Zealand) Powerful words of confession and forgiveness, sung to a lovely tune that will need to be taught, but will not be hard to teach. It has 5 verses, so maybe invite the congregation to join in as they hear it. Lyrics.
• Tune In / Online Resource / NCYC '07 Forgive us now (Dave Brown, Australia) “As we forgive may we be healed, as we reach out….” An excellent ballad. Lyrics, sound sample and free downloadable songbook.

Alternate Psalm Psalm 25:1-9

Make me know your ways, teach me your paths. Trust in God 

• GWA111 / HiOS038 God come now to explore my heart (Marnie Barrell, New Zealand) An honest and moving call for God to help us see within ourselves. Sung to a lovely hymnlike tune. Sound sample (tune only). 
• Online Resource To you, O Lord I lift my soul (Val Parker) I really like this very simple response (which has only two notes, but really good chords!). It can be used with a cantor and choir if you have one, but for many congregations, just the response will be useful to use with spoken verses. Sound and sheet music samples and purchasing options. 
• TLUS085 Let me not be put to shame (Deborah Park, Korea / Canada) This is a simple chant, which would be particularly nice with a gong. Could be used in a prayer of confession, or as a refrain to a reading of this Psalm. Lyric video.  
• URW143 The Grace of God is like a road (Michael Hudson, USA) Beautiful words of God's presence and call to follow. Sung to a familiar tune THE GIFT OF LOVE, that is almost the same as O WALY WALY. Highly recommended. Lyrics (go to p3 of PDF). New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource / Tune In Like the sun upon my skin / God’s Mercy (Sheree Anderson) A beautiful ballad about identifying God's mercy in the beauty of creation. Free downloadable songbook and sound sample.
• Online Resource I Lay Open (Psalm 25) (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) A calm reflective chant that could be used as a responsive refrain, or as a devotional prayer. Sound sample & contact details for sheet music. 
• Online Resource / Tune In Dare to Dream (Elaine Loukes) A great song about having a vision for the future, being lead by the light of Bethlehem’s star. "Dare to dream of new beginnings, Paths untried, by faith supplied".  Free downloadable songbook and sound sample.
• ATFG563 / NCYC'03 / The Red Book How long must we cry out? (Robin Mann) This is a big Brunswick favourite, great for young people in particular. "Teach me to do what is right, walk in the darkness, trust in the light and may love be the path I walk upon". Good for teenagers. Lyrics. Lyric video.
• TiS 666 / AoV2-113 / AoVK-126 / ATOK 409 / NCH526 / Iona (Common Ground, Freedom is Coming) / CH516 / VU646/647 / WoV650 / ELW866 / A&M483 / SFFS 2235 / HPP153 / GtG853 / G(II)357 / GC513 / GC(II)516 / G(3)594 / Cha442 / SP235 / Srce737 / StF483 / MP954 We are marching in the light of God / Siyahamba / Caminando (South African) A very popular chorus, with possible alternate verses, depending on your source. Sometimes people get anxious about the word "marching", but remember that this song comes from apartheid-era South Africa, where people were protesting so that they could vote in their own country. And the marching is toi-toing, much less militaristic than what you may imagine. Amazing choral sound sample. Sheet music. Good for kids.
• NCH Psalter 25 Your mercy and love have been from of old (Judy Hunnicutt) A lovely simple Psalm refrain.
• Emergent Psalter Let me know your ways (Isaac Everett) A really good psalm response. I just love this book - I think I like every Psalm in it. Book available here. 
• Iona (WWHW) / MV223 We will go with God / Sizohamba naye (Traditional Swaziland) A simple Zulu song from Swaziland. Good for the end of the service. Video with pronunciation and parts. Note that MV has a different set of English words; neither are a direct translation. Sound sample of a more traditional version. Good for kids.
• Online Resource / VU753 / AA117 / A&M773 / SP306 Safe in the hands of God / Safe in your hands O God (Michael Perry) Good paraphrase of the Psalm. Tune will need to be played through at least once before the congregation join in. Lyrics & Sheet music.
• Online resource Make me know your ways (Bruce Harding) A nice laid back and groovy Psalm response or chant. Can work as a round, too. Sheet music. Good for kids.
• Online Resource / GA280 / GtG089 / G(II)252 / GC328 / GC(II)336 / G(3)415 / Lau111 For you O Lord my soul in stillness waits (Marty Haugen) Nice refrain, and verses that contain a good range of images of God. Might be best for the congregation to join in only in the refrain as verses are long and have lots of words. Sound sample, sheet music, purchasing options. 
• ATOK 414 / Iona (LFB, Common Ground) / CH501 / GA485 / A&M788 / G(II)480 / GC673 / GC(II)655 / SP311 / StF513 / Lau850 Take this moment, sign and space (John Bell) A fairly well known favourite. Simple melody and beautiful words. Lyrics.
• Online Resource / GWA080 / MV45 / SP&P051 / VT023 Hamba nathi (Unknown, Zulu, South Africa) There are many sets of English words to this tune, which is best sung in its original language (isiZulu). I like "Come walk with us, the journey is long", even though the original language simply means "Go with us Lord", so versions using "Go with us Lord, and set us all free" are also good, particularly as a sending song. VT has a more interesting cantor line than most sources, and nice additional verses. Sound recording (concert version for inspiration). Lyric video (slowish version for congregations). Sheet music. Good for kids. 
• TIS 624 / W&R453 / StF492 Christ be my leader by night as by day (Timothy Dudley Smith) Excellent words of following Christ in times of struggle to a traditional Scottish melody. Lyrics New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource / VU752 / G(II)34 / GC36 / GC(II)26 / G(3)039 / PfAS025A / URW248 To you O God I lift my soul (Marty Haugen) Simple lilting cantor and response "To you O Lord I lift my soul, to you I lift my soul". Sheet music sample and purchasing options.
• AoV2-014 To You O God I Lift Up My Soul (Bob Hurd) I like this; it's pretty groovy, and has good lyrics; you could also use the chorus on its own, or with a read version of the Psalm. Sound sample and lyrics.
• TiS 14 / GA026 To you, O Lord I lift my soul (Christopher Willcock) Good cantor and response. Sound sample.
• Taizé / CH276 / VU22 / GtG090 / ELW262 / GA283 / A&M053 / G(II)256 / GC332 / GC(II)340 / G(3)406 / CP094 / W&R166 / PfAS037B / SP28 / URW396 / Lau088 Wait for the Lord (Jacques Berthier) "Wait for the Lord whose day is near, wait for the lord, keep watch, take heart". A lovely simple Taizé chant. Some older versions are not inclusive. Sheet music, translations and sound samples.

Philippians 2:1-13
Servanthood of Christ, Unity

• Online Resource / GWA167 Who is this one gritty and tough / A little more (Stephen Fischbacher, Scotland / Suzanne Butler, Scotland / Margaret McLarty, Scotland) A fun song about the many faceted nature of Jesus' life and a catchy chorus asking whether we can be a little more like him. Brief sound sample and purchasing options. Full song in lyric video. Good for kids.
• TiS 650 / ATA 191 / CH694 / A&M604 / NCH539 / VU595 / ELW659 / AA08 / SFFS 2222 / HPP442 / GtG727 / G(II)476 / GC683 / GC(II)661 / G(3)751 / CP500 / CP(E) 393 / W&R391 / Cha490 / SP263 / URW117 / StF611 / Lau924 Brother, sister, let me serve you / Won't you let me be your servant? (Richard Gillard) I think you all know this one. Lyrics. NCH has a nice turn on the lyrics with "Won't you let me be your servant?" as the first line.  Oldy-but-a-goody.
• TiS 236 / AHB 178 / CH351 / UMH273 / VU570 / HPP157 / W&R634 Jesus' hands were kind hands (Margaret Cropper) Good old fashioned children's song. Lots of kids learn to play this on piano, so if you have some budding piano students in your congregation, it may be nice to invite one to play.  Sheet music & lyrics. Good for kids Oldy-but-a-goody.
• NCH590 / CH621 Spirit of Jesus, if I love my neighbour (Brian Wren) Challenging words of offering help from a position of privilege and seeking to be set free from the entrapment of possessions “If I am hugging safety or possessions, uncurl my spirit as your love prevails, to join my neighbours, work for liberation, and find my freedom at the mark of nails”. Could also be sung to the tune PERFECT LOVE if your congregation would have trouble with the newer tune. Sheet music & lyrics. New words to old tunes. 
• TiS 691 Faith will not grow from words alone (Elizabeth Smith) This is an excellent hymn about doubting and struggling in faith. The tune is familiar and I find the words very helpful for thinking and doubting Christians. Lyrics (downloads an order of service).
• Online Resource / TiS 640 / AHB 561 / ATE 310 / NCH498 / UMH432 / VU593 / WoV765 / ELW708 / HPP446 / GtG203 / PH367 / G(II)296 / GC409 / GC(II)429 / G(3)505 / CP504 / W&R273 / Cha600 / URW116 / 82Hml-602 / Lau241 / StF249 Jesu Jesu fill us with your love / Kneels at the feet of his friends (Tom Colvin & people of Ghana) Classic. Lyrics and sheet music. Good for kids Oldy-but-a-goody.
• TiS 174 / UMH194 / A&M544 / CP(E)259 / 82Hml-585 / StF012 Morning glory starlit sky (William Hubert Vanstone) Quite formal words, but very very beautiful song of God's boundless love "Drained is love in making full, bound in setting others free, poor in making many rich, weak in giving power to be". Not all sources are inclusive. The tune is not difficult, but will need to be taught to a congregation if not familiar. The lyrics could also be read as a poem, and challenges the image of Christ as monarch, but also affirms God's reign. Lyrics.
• TiS 721 / Iona (LFB) / URW431 / StF344 / Lau124 He became poor that we may be rich (Iona) A simple chant. Timing is a little bit tricky, so you will need to take a little time to teach it initially. This has gorgeous parts if you have some singers. Sound sample (instrumental).
• Online Resource / MV155 Unbounded spirit breath of God (Brian Wren) Good solid words of commitment to faith and work; a communal song. Simple hymnlike tune. Lyrics & sheet music. 
• Online Resource / Walk as One Come come come come together (David MacGregor) A boppy song about working together - a good song for sending out the congregation. Lyric video. Sheet music for purchase.
• Online Resource / CH348 / StS001 / LBW196 / ELW843 / A&M762 / G(3)625 / CP397 / W&R93 / SP304 / URW090 Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness (Rusty Edwards) Good words of Christ's ministry to all. Can be sung to the familiar tune NETTLETON, or the less familiar and very lovely tune JOEL. Lyrics and sheet music. New words to old tunes   .
• AHB 168 / NCH166 / A&M675 / CP(E) 475 / MP328 Immortal love for ever full (John Greenleaf Whittier) Not all versions are inclusive. This is an older style hymn. A beautiful choral version with video (tune is different to hymnals, but the lyrics are the same). Thist would be nice to listen to!
• Taizé / MV075 / StS079 / SFFS 2118 / GtG284 / GC(II)479 / G(3)547 / SP99 / URW395 / VT058 Holy Spirit Come to Us / Veni sancte spiritus tui amoris (Jacques Berthier) Best if you have a cantor, but works well if you don't, too. Sheet music, translations, sound samples.
• TiS 341 / AHB 257 / NCH222 / CH399 / VU143 / A&M147 / WoV661 / LBW094 / ELW782 / SFFS 2083 / HPP329 / GtG209 / PH076 / CP184 / CP(E) 112 / Srce2-426 / 82Hml-458 / Lau752 / StF277 / MP478 My song is love unknown (Samuel Crossman) I really love this old and beautiful song. I prefer it sung to LOVE UNKNOWN. Lyrics. New words to old tunes  
• Online Resource / Worldmaking O Christ, Lamb of God (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) A more modern Agnus Dei, with Christ sharing our weakness. Lyrics and sound sample.
• TiS 242 / AHB 183 / AoV1-018 / ATN 27 / CH404 / UMH261 / VU352 / A&M667 / HPP163 / GtG157 / PH302 / G(II)481 / GC708 / GC(II)689 / G(3)796 / CP(E) 468 / W&R118 / Lau765 / StF247 I danced in the morning / Lord of the Dance (Sydney Carter). Lyrics and tidbits of info.You all know this one, right? For Passion Sunday, it may be best to stop this partway through, and sing the rest on Easter Sunday. Good for kids Oldy-but-a-goody.
• GtB God is love and love is giving (Ross Langmead) A simple kids' song about God's love. A round. Sound sample. Good for kids.
• Tune In / Online Resource O Spirit God to you we pray / In the shape of a cross (Dave Brown) A cry to God for help. Free downloadable songbook and sound samples.
• Online resource / MV047 Born in human likeness (Bruce Harding) A simple Christmas round. Sheet music. Good for kids.
• TiS 217 / AHB 148 / NCH43 / CH519 / UMH384 / VU333 / A&M721 / LBW315 / ELW631 / A&M721 / GA463 / HPP48 / GtG366 / PH376 / GC622 / GC(II)613 / G(3)641 / CP485/6 / CP(E) 516 / W&R358 / Cha517 / Srce457 / URW100 / 82Hml-657 / Lau801 / StF503 / MP449 Love divine all loves excelling (Charles Wesley) A beautiful classic song and most hymnals use a very inclusive version of this hymn, even the AHB. Lyrics and sheet music. You may also like to give Rend Collective Experiment's version a listen (hard for congregations to sing, but nice for listening). Thanks to Noodle Thrower for this suggestion. Oldy-but-a-goody. 

Matthew 21:23-32
Who gave Jesus authority? The disobedient and obedient sons
Many of the songs suggested for the Philippians reading will also work here in terms of following the theme of servanthood.

• NCH400 / VU325 Christ is made the sure foundation (John Mason Neale, England, based on a 6th century text) Most versions of this early Latin hymn are old translations which are not so suitable for modern congregations. NCH has good lyrics “Here renew your servants’ vision, that by faith they may attain peace and hope, renewed compassion, strength to comfort those in pain, tears and grief transformed to gladness in your everlasting reign.” Lyric video (instrumental).
• Online Resource / TiS 749 / AoV1-154 / AoVK-131 / ATE 305 / NCH360 / Iona (SBL, Freedom is coming) / CH800 / UMH497 / VU572 / WoV773 / ELW809 / GA493 / A&M481 / HPP340 / GtG746 / G(II)484 / GC677 / GC(II)674 / G(3)776 / W&R713 / Cha447 / SP234 / StF782 Send me Jesus / Thuma mina (Unknown, South Africa) You all know this one, right? If you don't - it's great - simple, repetitive, and meaningful. Sound and sheet music sample and purchasing options. Youtube.
• Online Resource / CH488 / AA130 Teach us O loving heart of Christ (Shirley Murray, Aotearoa / New Zealand) Good, powerful words seeking forgiveness for those things we have not done or said. The tune is new, but fairly simple. Sheet music & lyrics. 
• TiS 259 / Iona (Love From Below) Among us and before us Lord you stand (John Bell, Scotland) Good words. The set tune (GATEHOUSE) will need to be taught. It can also be sung to SURSUM CORDA. Lyrics (Downloads a powerpoint presentation)

Do you have ideas that you would like to share? Please add them in a comment below!
Written in Manchester Airport, UK, after the 22nd UK Sacred Harp Convention in 2017; updated during the 2nd coronavirus lockdown in Melbourne 2020, then again at home in Melbourne 2023, and then in Narita Airport in 2026! 

Songs for Season of Creation 3A - Outback / Wilderness Sunday

Note for 2026: This year, I am only fixing broken links on the pages for the earlier form of Season of Creation since few people looked at these pages last year. 

  

Joel 1:8-10, 17-20
Lamentation; fire has destroyed the wilderness

• FFS02 As the sun beats down (Bill Bennett) Good words. Simple tune. A lamentation in times of drought. Maybe drought is like fire destroying the land too. Lyrics (scroll down). 
• GWA029 In ages past the mighty Lord by prophets spoke the word (Michael Morgan) This is a song with very many verses; choose at least verses 1 and 7 this week, and you can sing other verses when you want to sing about other prophets. Set to the common tune KINGSFOLD. Some lyrics (not the Joel verse!). New words to old tunes.

Psalm 18:6-19
The Psalmist calls on God who answered (in a very dramatic way) with deliverance

• MV017 / FFS024 / Srce2-145 God in the darkness (Elizabeth Smith, Australia) Great words which would work well at the beginning of a service of worship. Set to a fairly simple hymn-like tune by Colin Gibson. Verse 1: "God in the darkness, God beyond our knowing, patient creator, seed in secret growing, rock of the living, water ever flowing, come and renew us." Lyrics.
• Online Resource Out of our distress we call to you O God (Jordan Redding, Aotearoa / New Zealand) A simple and quite beautiful chant based on Jonah's cry out from inside the whale, but also suites this Psalm quite well. Free sheet music.   
• PfAS018B How I love you Lord my God (Ada Roeper-Boulogne) Good paraphrase of the Psalm, set to the familiar hymn tune (ABERSYTWYTH) New words to old tunes.  
• SiS635 / StJ / SFFS2002 / GtG621 / W&R653 / MP306 I Will Call upon the Lord (Michael O'Shields) Fun. Don't take it too seriously; break into a round if you feel like it. I always imagine crazy 80s hair metal drums and guitars for the chorus. There is a second verse in some sources which really isn't needed (or good). Lyrics and chords. I may have listened (accidentally, of course... ahem) to Petra in the 80s-.
• Online Resource / Resounding Voices / TLUS056 / VT044 We long to know her the maker of heaven (Jacque Jones, USA) Rich feminine imagery of God as creator, wisdom and bringer of justice. Sung to a tune that may be familiar (STAR OF THE EAST). Free book download here. New words to old tunes.
• AHB 341 A lamp for our feet has been given (Granton Douglas Hay) I reckon this one is pretty good.
• VT047 God of our strength (Fanny Crosby, USA) This is an old school hymn, which is OK, and if familiar to your congregation, would be good to sing. Lyrics. Oldy but a goody.
• TLUS049 You are my strength (Reuben Morgan, Australia) This is a song of personal devotion, from Hillsong, so if that's something that suits your congregation, it would work well with this Psalm. Lyric video. Lyrics and chords.
• VT074 O worship our God all glorious above (Robert Grant, England / new version!) This rewrite of the old classic "O worship the King, all glorious above" to include a feminine God is just delightful; it is still very "battley" but reads so differently when it is feminine image, which is a helpful way of expanding how we think about the sovereign nature of God. I would sing it to whichever tune your congregation is used to. I like HANOVER best (TiS 133). Lyric video (not HANOVER). New words to old tunes. 

Romans 8:18-27

The spirit intercedes for us.

• FFS11 Come teach us Spirit of our God (Shirley Murray) Excellent words and a good tune.
• Music by Heart 19 The groaning of the spirit (Benjamin Law) A round with an ostinato (a higher part) and an optional drum part. Would need to be taught during worship, or shortly before.
• Tune In / Online Resource Spirit of the Father / Alive in me (Sheree Anderson) Catchy song about God’s spirit living in us. "Take hold of the hope that I give, trust in me, reach out for the love you can live, eternally”. Free downloadable songbook, lyrics and sound samples. Good for kids.<
• Tune In / Online Resource Father of earth, Mother of sea (Dave Brown) A latinesque song about the Spirit being with those who are victims, prisoners and the sick, as well as present in our prayers. Note particularly the phrase “Spirit who prays with us while war goes on… pray with us Lord”. Free downloadable songbook, lyrics and sound samples.
• ACS903 / AoV1-061 / ATOK 355 / GtG359 / SFFS 2194 / G(II)521 / GC723 / GC(II)707 / G(3)814 / ZSS110 / SgTJ1035 / StF697 Freedom is coming (Unknown, South Africa) Excellent and lots of fun, especially if you have a keen African-style drummer in your congregation. It's really worth teaching the parts to your congregation before the service. It can get a bit confusing for the congregation otherwise. A range of sound samples (Youtube). Sheet music samples. Good for kids.
• TiS 417 / AoV2-133 / ATW 448 / VU387 / StJ / WoV683 / ELW397 / AA94 / HPP237 / GtG293 / PH323 / CP657 / W&R135 / Cha244 / URW203 / StB220 / VF051 / LUYH793 Loving Spirit, Loving Spirit (Shirley Murray) There are about a zillion tunes set for this. I prefer FELICITY (by Colin Gibson TiS 417), but also like RESTORATION and OMNI DIE. Lyrics. New words to old tunes (if that's what you choose) 
• URW154 Holy holy holy you are whole and holy (Per Harling) Very simple tune. Would be a nice Sanctus to use during communion this week if you like, even if you just used the chorus.
• AoV2-003 / ATOK 313 / CH543 / StJ / GA404 / A&M042 / ELW715 / GtG314 / GC(II)512 / G(3)590 / SP13 / URW114 / Lau883 / StF706 Longing for light we wait in darkness / Christ, be our light (Bernadette Farrell) One of my favourites, especially if someone can sing or play the descant line in the later verses. Sound sample and lyrics. Good for kids. 
• TiS 421 Where the Spirit is there's freedom (Per Harling) Fun and good; excellent fun for the pianist! Lyrics.  Good for kids.
• NCH057 / VU379 / WoV688 / LBW459 / ELW399 / SFFS 2121 / CP(E) 188 / Cha251 / URW079 / VF055 O Holy Spirit root of life (Jean Janzen) Good words from Hildegard of Bingen of "Holy Spirit","Eternal Vigour" and "Holy Wisdom". I like the phrase "encompass us with wings unfurled". Simple known tune (PUER NOBIS). Lyrics. New words to old tunes.
• NCH520 / LBW441 / ELW402 / AA033 / CP557 / W&R475 / 82Hml-698 Eternal Spirit of the living Christ (Frank von Christierson) There are many tunes to these very honest and realistic words. For a more modern alternative, Gibson's tune in AA (ARGYLE STREET) is quite good. Lyrics.
• ATW 463 / Iona (T1AU) / ELW721 / SFFS 2219 / A&M835 / GtG750 / GC(II)451 / G(3)528 / W&R296 / URW436 Goodness is stronger than evil (Desmond Tutu, South Africa) "Victory is ours, victory is ours, through him who loves us". Some congregations change the last line to "Compassion is ours, compassion is ours...". It depends on the context in which you sing it, I suppose. Lyrics. Good for kids. 
• Online Resource / VU619 / WoV738 / ELW612 / SFFS 2213 / GtG795 / G(II)642 / GC882 / GC(II)854 / G(3)960 / RS 958 / CP612 / W&R630 / Cha506 / URW161 / Lau427 Healer of Our Every Ill (Marty Haugen) Good straightforward words of healing and simple tune. "Give us strength to love each other, every sister, every brother". Can get overly mushy. Lyrics, sound sample, sheet music sample, and purchasing options.
• TiS 419 / NCH270 / CH592 / A&M252 / UMH544 / VU205 / WoV685 / ELW403 / HPP222 / GtG285 / PH314 / CP635 / CP(E) 185 / W&R327 / SP92 / 82Hml-513 / StF389 Like the murmur of the dove's song (Carl Daw) Excellent words and a simple tune about Christian unity. Each verse ends with "Come holy spirit, come". Lyrics and sheet music samples.
• Worldmaking.net / SP&P081 / CP086 More Than We Can Ask (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) A great chant for use during intercessions. Very simple and genuine. Sample and lyrics here.
• Worldmaking.netO Tender God have mercy (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) A nice chant which would be great for the prayer of confession. Lyrics and very breathy sound sample.
• AoV1-139O God Nothing Can Take Us from your love (Christopher Walker) Good refrain. Good verses. Cantor and congregational response.
• TiS 380 / AHB 303 / NCH253 / CH419 / UMH308 / VU173 / LBW145 / ELW376 / A&M218 / HPP203 / GtG238 / PH122 / CP210 / CP(E)160 / W&R310 / Cha218 / Srce694 / Lau287 / StF313 / MP689 Thine be the glory risen conquering Son (Edmond Budry) One of the few older hymns that doesn't require updating, and beautiful harmonies... A great classic hymn! Lyrics and sheet music. Oldy-but-a-goody.

Matthew 3:13 – 4:2 or Mark 1:9-13
Christ is baptised and driven into the wilderness.  I have listed here the songs about being driven into the wilderness. Baptism of Christ songs from this year, are listed here.  

• Online Resource / Tune In / ATAR663 Save us in the time of trial (Shawn Whelan) A song with a reflective chant-like chorus. We have sung this a cuople of different ways, it's quite flexible. Reference recording, lyrics and free downloadable songbook.
• CH338 / VU115 / StS036 / SFFS 2105 / STF237 / LUYH115 Jesus tempted in the desert (Herman Stuempfle) Excellent story-telling hymn, sung to the familiar tune EBENEZER. Lyrics and sheet music. New words to old tunes.
• MV118 Me alone (Jamaican traditional) A very simple repetitive call-and-response song. Could work well as a reflective song. This is from the Caribbean Conference of Churches. Could work as a prayer response too.
• ACS922 / MV065 / GtG783 / STF240 When we are tested and wrestle alone (Ruth Duck) Excellent words paralleling our struggles with those of Christ in the wilderness. The set tune WHEN WE ARE TESTED is not difficult, but it can also be sung to SLANE (TiS 547) if you need a familiar tune. First verse is "When we are tested and wrestle alone, famished for bread when the world offers stone, nourish us God, by your word and your way, food that sustains us by night and by day". New words to old tunes.
• ATW 498 / Iona (T1AU) / MV 196 / SP&P182 / URW438 We will take what you offer (John Bell) An excellent simple short song that works well either as an upbeat chorus or as a reflective chant. "We will take what you offer. We will live by your word. We will love one another. And be fed by you Lord". Sound sample.
• ATAR626 / VU113 To the desert Jesus came / Together through the valley (Linnea Good) A good contemporary hymn, with a quite classically beautiful tune, for the start of Lent. A song about going together through the wilderness of Lent to Easter.
• SP&P097 The spirit led Jesus to the wilderness (Scheffler) A good catchy verse and chorus song for kids. The story of Jesus going into the wilderness. You might need to have a conversation about what it means to be tempted by the devil with the kids before singing this. We don't often talk about "The Devil". Good for kids.
• Online Resource Follow Jesus to the Jordan (David Bjorlin, USA) Excellent new words calling us to follow Jesus to the Jordan, to the wilderness, and wherever God leads us to go. Sung to the familiar tune BEACH SPRING. Sheet music sample, lyrics and purchasing options. New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource / Taizé / GtG814 / CP563 / PfAS062D In God alone my soul can find rest and peace / Mon âme se repose (Jacques Berthier) A beautiful healing chant from Taize. Words and music and sound samples for learning the parts. Good for kids.
• W&P115 Driven by the Spirit / Out in the Wilderness (Jay Beech) A groovy song that I think kids will like; I like the first and 3rd verses, and not so much of the rest. Good for kids. Lyric video (slow instrumental). 
• Online Resource / Tune In:You in all our worries / All will finish well (Dave Brown) “In this world where injustice reigns, you are in the midst of pain”. Excellent words of reassurance in a difficult world. Reference recording, lyrics and free downloadable songbook.
• Online resource Jesus in the Desert (Daniel Damon) A simple hymn-like song. Lyrics & sheet music.
• Cha455 You Have Called Me (David Edwards) A simple song, about being called from silence or the wilderness to serve. "Here I am, send me, here I am"
• Online ResourceOpen unto me light for my darkness (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) Good for a more contemplative service. Sample
• Online Resource O Christ, Lamb of God (Richard Bruxvoort-Colligan) A more modern Agnus Dei, with Christ sharing our weakness. Lyrics and sound sample.
• SP&P065 As the grain was scattered on the hills (Arthur Clyde) A beautiful and simple melody with words from the Didache. This would be very beautiful before or during the distribution of communion, particularly when the congregation has been on a difficult journey. "On hillsides you feed us, through deserts you lead us, now at this table all are one in Christ. We have new life" 

What ideas do you have? Please share them in a comment below.

Songs and Hymns for Proper 20A / Ordinary 25A / Pentecost +16 (September 20th 2026)

Looking for Season of Creation Resources?  

There are now many options to celebrate this season. 

You could celebrate the new Feast of Creation in Christ. 

If you are following the 2026 theme of "Living Water" or simply reflecting on Creation in your own way but using the Lectionary Readings, I have highlighted songs that are particularly appropriate within the Lectionary with a globe of the earth 🌏. 

If you are using the earlier version of Season of Creation, click here for Outback / Wilderness Sunday (Season of Creation 3A), or click here for suggestions for Earth Day. 

 

Here are the Uniting Church in Australia resources for Season of Creation. 

 

Exodus 16:2-15
The Israelites complain; God sends manna and quails. Enough to eat without hoarding.

• TLUS101 The people of God / O povo de Deus (Pedro Casaldaliga, Brazil) This excellent song speaks of God's people crying out "in between faith and doubting" and God's provision of Manna. "We, too, are your people O god, on this daring journey". Really worth learning. Sound samples in Portuguese and in English. Lyrics and chords. 
• 🌏TiS 156 / AHB 91 / AoV1-135 / ATA 123 / CH212 / UMH145 / VU409 / ELW556 / GA537 / A&M545 / HPP267 / GtG664 / PH469 / G(II)546 / GC756 / GC(II)748 / G(3)855 / CP003 / W&R35 / Cha053 / URW186 / 82Hml-008 / StF136 / Lau671 / MP467 Morning has broken (Eleanor Farjeon) This song makes me smile every time. Here's Yusuf Islam (when he was Cat Stevens) in 1976 (love those green boots).Oldy-but-a-goody. 
• VT025 Brethren / Family we have met to worship (George Askins, Ireland/USA) This old hymn presents a heavenly vision of Christ serving us with manna in the future kingdom. Most versions have lyrics that are too old school for a modern worship service, but the editors of Voices Together have done a great job of updating the lyrics. If your congregation is familiar with this song, I highly recommend this version. Story. Recording (with modernised lyrics). I love that they have replaced the word Brethren with Family.
• Recorded music Then the quail came (Michael Kelly Blanchard) I love this song, and the words really bring the story of the quail and manna to tired travellers. Recorded originally by Noel Paul Stookey (the Paul in Peter, Paul and Mary). I like the recording by Australian folk singer Peter Campbell. Lyrics and recording.Project or print the lyrics for people in the congregation to read while they listen. Here's Michael Kelly Blanchard's version. 
• VU279 You God are my firmament (Miriam Therese Winter) Lovely song with words of God being our shelter, guide, and nourishment, with a simple chorus "I will give thanks, I will sing praise with all of my heart, all of my days". Sound sample.
• ATW 474 You're like the sun that warms me / Bread of angels (Robin Mann) This is a nice ballad, a favourite of many in our congregation. It may not be easy for a congregation without some introduction because the structure is a little tricky. Lyrics and recording.
• 🌏Online Resource / VU460 / R181 / ELW461 / SFFS 2126 / GtG509 / G(II)589 / GC820 / GC(II)817 / RS 845 / Cha419 / Lau477 All who hunger gather gladly (Sylvia Dunstan) The words are great; I would sing it to the tune HOLY MANNA. There is a contemporary tune (by Bob Moore) is also very nice, but may need to be introduced to your congregation. “All who hunger gather gladly, holy manna is our bread. Come from wilderness and wand’ring, here, in truth, we will be fed. You that yearn for days of fullness, all around us is our food. Taste and see the grace eternal, Taste and see that God is good”. Lyrics, sheet music sample, purchasing options. New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource Manna for all (Bruce Harding) A simple chant “God of abundance, call us to action, trusting your promise, manna for all!”. Sample available, and option to purchase Sample and free sheet music.
• Online Resource / Walk as One God the great mystery (Sharonne Price / Rosemary Nairn) An excellent hymn of God's abundance and creative power, which includes a passing reference to this passage. Set to the tune BONNIE GEORGE CAMPBELL. Sound samples and backing tracks. Book (PDF) for purchase. New words to old tunes
• Public Domain / TiS 569 / AHB 478 / NCH18/19 / CH167 / UMH127 / VU651 / LBW343 / ELW618 / StF465 / A&M652 / HPP432 / GtG065 / PH281 / CP565 / CP(E) 455 / W&R501 / Cha622 / 82Hml690 / StF465 / Lau960 / MP201 Guide me O thou great Jehovah / Redeemer (William Williams) A rousing hymn of God’s presence and strength and making it to the other side. "Bread of heaven, feed me now and evermore." Lyrics and piano recording. Sheet music. Oldy-but-a-goody.
• Online Resource / GC840 / GC(II)818 / G(3)910 / CP085 / 82Hml-343 Shepherd of souls refresh and bless (James Montgomery)  Old fashioned inclusive words to a standard hymn tune. "Shepherd of souls refresh and bless thy chosen pilgrim flock, with manna from the wilderness and water from the rock". Lyrics, sound sample, mp3s and sheet music for preview, purchase and download.

Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45
A song of thanks, with references to the Israelites coming out of Egypt and God providing food and water.

• VU279 You God are my firmament (Miriam Therese Winter) Lovely song with words of God being our shelter, guide, and nourishment, with a simple chorus "I will give thanks, I will sing praise with all of my heart, all of my days". Lyric accompaniment video.
• 🌏TiS 755 / ATA 196 / CH804 / VU884 / SFFS 2278 / A&M484 / HPP219 / GTG080 / CP662 / W&R710 / SP82 / Srcs830 / URW449 / Lau878 / STF487 / MP796  You shall go out with joy / The trees of the field (Stuart Dauerman) This is a good hand clappy foot stomping song. Fun. Awesome Jewish dancing video. Good for kids. Oldy-but-a-goody.
• AoVK-24 / Iona (T1AU) / CH756 Bless the Lord (Kenyan). A good call and response chant – would make a good processional. Words are: Bless the Lord (my sisters), Bless the Lord (my brothers) Bless the Lord there is no other God. I think our congregation would really enjoy this. The tune is identical to Re a mo Leboga. Sound sample of Re a mo leboga (scroll to the 3rd album). 
• NCH Psalter Let the hearts of those who seek God rejoice! (Elaine Kirkland) Good joyous refrain, which could be used with the sung or read Psalm.
• Online Resource / GWA222 Hear the message we now are proclaiming / El mensaje que hoy proclamamos (Eleazar Torreglosa, Colombia) This jubilant song of liberty and new life for the poor and suffering would fit well with this reading. Good for kids. Free sheet music. Sound sample.Lyric video (Spanish). Another recording (with hand claps!).
• Iona / CH788 / MV104 / GtG659 Know that God is Good / Mungu ni mwema (Traditional Congo) This traditional African refrain is just lots of fun and very simple to sing. Good for kids and adults! Sound sample. Sound sample in Kenyan languages.
• 🌏NCH022 / VU221 Sing praise to God who has shaped and sustains all creation! (Joachim Neander / translated Madeleine Forell Marshall) A new translation of Neander's classic hymn "Praise to the Lord the Almighty…". I quite like this. Sung to LOBE DEN HERREN New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource / TiS 66 Sing to God, sing praises (Helen Wright) A good cantor and refrain. The refrain will also work well with the Psalm being read from the verses. Sheet music and lyrics.
• ATW 457 / Iona (T1AU) / CH751 / MV050 / StS017 / GC(II)260 / G(3)328 / URW402 Alleluia (Norah Duncan) A simple Alleluia. Gather version has a descant cantor part. Sound sample. Sheet music samples.
• MV187 / ELW682 We give our thanks / Re a mo leboga (Traditional Botswana) A great song to sing for the offering. Older style version. More upbeat version. Amazing video with a newer version. Good for kids.
• ATN 51 / SFFS 2258 / SiS / MP601 Sing alleluia to the Lord (Linda Stassen) A simple and familiar song to many. It has nice soaring Alleluias and is not too hard. Substitute “Our God” if you like, as some hymnals do. Lyrics and sound samples.
• ATW 460 / Iona (M&G) / CH752 / VU717 / WoV610 Alleluia (South Africa) (Gobingca George Mxadana) Beautiful and peaceful, especially if you can work all the harmonies in. Sound sample.
• Online Resource / ATE 216 / CH126 / CP417 / ELW555 / G(II)365 / GC527 / Iona (SBL) / PH472 / RS 671 / W&R15 / StF042 / StJ / VT113 O sing to the Lord / Cantai ao Senhor / Cantad al Señor (Unknown, Brazil) A good, fun and simple song that is also easy to learn in Portuguese or Spanish; note that not all versions are inclusive. Public domain sheet music. Sound sample. Note how it is a call and response song in that sound sample! Youtube (keep an eye out for the innovative book-based güiro, and is she shaking a bag of pretzels?). Good for kids.

Alternative Hebrew Scripture: Jonah 3:10-4:11
Jonah sulks; the withered bush

• GWA029 In ages past the mighty Lord by prophets spoke the word (Michael Morgan) This is a song with very many verses; choose at least verses 1 and 10 this week, and add whichever other verses suit your context. Set to the common tune KINGSFOLD. Some lyrics (not the Hosea verse!). New words to old tunes.
•  TiS 674 / Iona (Common Ground, Heaven Shall Not Wait) / A&M562 / CH253 / SP245 Inspired by love and anger (Iona) Powerful lyrics, simple English folk tune (SALLY GARDENS). Lyrics. New words to old tunes 
• ATFG537 Jonah was a prophet who lived many years ago (Pfeffer) Fun. Sung to the tune of "John Brown's body".  Good for kids.
• ATAR684 Who am I? (Unknown author) A good song for kids about all the different people called by God. Mentions Moses, Jonah, Esther and Jesus. Good for kids.  

Alternative Psalm to go with Jonah: Psalm 145:1-8

God is excellent 

• 🌏Public Domain / TiS 100 / AHB 3 / 82Hml-400 / A&M532 / CH147 / Cha022 / CP(E)250  / ELW835 / GA395 / HPP261 / GtG020 / PH455 / GtG015 / GC534 / GC(II)523 / G(3)611 / Lau694 / LBW527 / LUYH551 / NCH017 / MP007 / StF099 / UMH62 / VT081 / VU217 / W&R23 All creatures of our God and King / All creatures worship God most high (Francis of Assisi, Italy, translated William Henry Draper, England) A good classic sing! Hymnals vary a LOT in translations and verses included. Many hymnals have improved the refrain by "Sing your praises" or "Sing praises" or just "Alleluia Alleluia"to eliminate Draper's "Oh praise him" refrain which makes God repeatedly exclusively male. Some hymnals have adapted the words to improve them, including NCH (see below), ELW and VT - so seek them out! Lyrics (modern version). Story. Sheet music. Oldy-but-a-goody.
• 🌏NCH017 To you O God all creatures sing (Francis of Assisi, Italy, adapted Miriam Therese Winter, USA) This is a lovely new adaptation of Draper's earlier translation (All creatures of our God and King), sung to the same tune. Lyrics and a beautiful choral version. New words to old tunes
• 🌏GP(3)87 / TLUS044 All praise to the God of creation / Sari srishti ke malik tumhi ho (Kiran Kumar Pradhan, Nepal) This is a really good hymn about God's love and care of all creation, including each of us. It has a joyful chorus of Alleluias. There are millions of sound samples, in a range of styles on Youtube. This is a nice simple one. I also like this one.   
• MV048 I can feel you near me God / Jump for joy (Pat Mayberry) Good song for smaller kids about God being with us. I reckon you could get the kids to Jump in the chorus. Maybe it's a bit too happy clappy for some? Good for kids. Lyrics. 
• Iona / CH788 / MV104 / GtG659 Know that God is Good / Mungu ni mwema (Traditional Congo) This traditional African refrain is just lots of fun and very simple to sing. Good for kids and adults! Sheet music sample. Sound sample. Sound sample in Kenyan languages.
• Public Domain / TiS 132 / AHB 65 / NCH277 / CH651 / UMH64 / VU315 / LBW165 / ELW413 / A&M276 / HPP243 / GtG001 / PH138 / G(II)332 / GC475 / GC(II)483 / CP001 / CP(E) 202 / W&R136 / Cha004 / Srce243 / 82Hml-362 / Lau468 / StF011 / MP237 Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty (Francis Reginald Heber) Old other-worldly language, but a surprisingly inclusive (in most hymnals) classic, and a great rousing hymn tune. Different resources have slightly altered lyrics. History, sheet music and old lyrics. Oldy-but-a-goody.
• MV176 Three things I promise (Brian Wren / Dan Damon) Beautiful words of seeking to live faithfully from Brian Wren. The set tune is unfamiliar, but very beautiful, and if not familiar to your congregation would make a good reflective piece (for the congregation to sing in later weeks). You could also sing it to one of the suggested alternate tunes PROSPECT and WAREHAM if you like.  Sound sample (to the newer tune). New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource / TiS 152 / 82Hml-376 / Cha002 / CP425 / ELW836 / GC529 / GC(II)520 / G(3)614 / GtG611 / HPP22 / LBW551 / NCH4 / PH464 / UMH89 / URW065 / VU232 / VT103 / W&R59 Joyful joyful we adore thee (Henry van Dyke, USA) Note that this hymn uses exclusively Father and Brother language for God and Christ in verse 3, and "man to man" for humanity, so older versions are not very inclusive. I prefer more modern translations (e.g. TiS, VU, NCH, GC(II) or VT which has thees and thys but is inclusive). Public domain (older style) lyrics and sheet music. Oldy-but-a-goody.
• 🌏VU267 / W&R20 / A&M711 / SP288 / Lau897 / MP419 Like a mighty river flowing (Michael Perry) Lovely words of the presence of God in nature. Lyrics
• Taizé / MV009 O Come and let us sing to God our hope / Venite Exultamus Domino (Taize) "God's mercy is forever". Joyful gathering chant. Sound samples, sheet music.
• CH101 You are kind and full of compassion (The Grail, Inclusive Language Version) This is not a hymn, but a beautiful paraphrase of this Psalm that could be read as a poem or alternate translation reading. 
• GWA021 I will praise your greatness O God (Iona Abbey Worship Book) A responsively read version of the Psalm. Good simple language. No tune!

Philippians 1:21-30 

Living right. Or something.

• TiS 468 / NCH309 / PH436 We are your people, Spirit of Grace (Brian Wren, USA) A bit long, but if you vary verses between men and women it's a bit more refreshing. The sudden high note at the end can throw newcomers to the tune a little, so if it's new, it's good to warn people about it. Lyrics and sheet music.  
• Online Resource / Iona (M&G, T1AU) / MV099 / GC(II)673 / G(3)763 / Lau996 Stand O Stand Firm (Cameroon) I love having an excuse to sing this simple and powerful song. Very easy for your congregation. You can make up cantor parts too “Oh my sisters…. Oh my brothers… Oh my children….” or you can name countries you are praying for in your intercessions. Good for kids. Sound sample, including a litany of the saints, sheet music sample, purchasing options.
• MV154 Deep in our hearts (John Oldham, USA) A good song about having a common vision and purpose. Easy to sing. Lyric video.
• CH159 / A&M715 / CP(E) 81 / W&R70 / SP289 / Srce439 / Lau942 / StF470 / MP428 Lord for the years your love has kept and guided (Timothy Dudley-Smith, England) Very traditional, but good words. Some lack of inclusive language in some versions. Sung to a well-known hymn tune (O PERFECT LOVE) in some books it is set to a different tune, which is also nice but may be less familiar. Lyrics. New words to old tunes.
• Online Resource / NCH398 / MV044 / W&R599 / URW072 Shadow and Substance (Daniel Damon, USA) Good clear words of being Christ's community in all our diversity. A simple tune. Sound sample. Lyrics and sheet music.
• Iona (Common Ground) / VU704 / CP297 / StF612 God give us life (John Bell, Scotland) Good words, to a fairly straightforward, but unfamiliar tune. If you choose to focus on the "living is Christ, and dying is gain" part of the passage, this may be helpful. Lyric accompaniment video.

Matthew 20:1-16
The parable of equal pay to the workers in the vineyard who all started at different times.

• MV127 I saw the rich ones (Pat Mayberry, Canada) This is simple to sing and a great song for kids “The men in the vineyards were grumbling one day, I knew they weren’t happy with what they’d been paid… But with God the world is turned upside down. The poor are embraced and the lost they are found. Let’s work for a world where all people are free. Where it’s good to feel good about God loving you and me”. Lyric video. Good for kids.
• NCH332 / VU457 / ELW522 / SFFS 2268 / HPP528 / GC(II)738 / G(3)839 / CP061 / W&R695 As We Gather at Your Table (Carl P Daw, USA) Beautiful, honest, encouraging words. Could be sung to HOLY MANNA, BEACH SPRING or NETTLETON, all very popular hymn tunes (and Sacred Harp tunes), particularly good if you are celebrating communion this week. Lyrics. New words to old tunes
• 🌏Online Resource / TiS 168 / NCH425 / CH231 / UMH97 / A&M284 / ELW679 / GA426 / HPP287 / GtG036 / PH553 / RS704 / CP259 / CP(E) 254 / W&R723 / Cha714 / Lau731 / StF124 / URW193 / VT124 / VU227 / WoV760 For the Fruit of All Creation / For the fruits of this creation (Fred Pratt Green, USA) Some sources are quite masculine (TiS), but some OK (NCH, GtG, VT). Very easy and well known tunes (I prefer AR HYD Y NOS, which is not used in all hymnals) and pretty standard words of harvest thanksgiving. The phrase "in the just reward of labour" would be an interesting discussion point for this passage. Lyrics and sheet music. New words to old tunes.

What will you be singing? I'd love to hear your ideas - please add them in a comment below!