NeuroDivine

When my friend Thurlow Weed shared that a tune had come to him in the unusual metre 8.6.8.8.6.7., he wondered aloud whether there were any words to fit it. Hymnody is full of familiar patterns—common metre, long metre, short metre—but sometimes a melody arrives that asks for something different.

I took up the challenge and wrote words to match his tune, now named Appleton. The text became a Trinitarian hymn of praise:

• Creator of the earth and sky — lifting our eyes to the One whose hand upholds the stars.
• Christ Jesus, Lord of all our days — reminding us that mercy sustains and peace carries us through trials.
• Come, Spirit, flame of holy love — inviting renewal, guidance, and light for the journey.

Why Hymnody Matters

Hymnody is more than filling a tune with words. It is the meeting place of theology, poetry, and music. A hymn teaches, prays, and praises all at once.

• Theology in song: Hymns carry doctrine into the heart. Singing “Creator, Christ, Spirit” is a confession of faith as much as a melody.
• Community in rhythm: When voices join, metre and tune become scaffolding for shared prayer. Even an unfamiliar pattern can draw people together.
• Imagination in worship: New tunes and texts remind us that worship is living, not static. Creativity is itself an offering.

Gratitude and Invitation

So thank you, Thurlow Weed, for Appleton. A tune without words became a hymn of praise, and in that collaboration lies the beauty of hymnody. It is a reminder that the Spirit still inspires fresh songs for the church today.

May this hymn encourage others to listen for melodies that arrive unbidden, and to trust that words will come. Hymnody is not only tradition—it is ongoing creation, a gift that keeps renewing the worship of God’s people.

Creator of the earth and sky, 
We praise your boundless might. 
Your hand upholds the stars above; 
You guide both day and night with care.
All life springs from your word; 
Your love is our heart's delight. 

Christ Jesus, Lord of all our days 
We life our hearts to you. 
Your mercy shines, your love sutains, 
You make our broken spirits new. 
Through our trials we are led; 
Your great peace will see us through. 

Come, Spirit, flame of holy love, 
Ignite our hearts today; 
Your breath renews, your gift inspires, 
And guides us safely on the way. 
We our lives yield to you. 
Your light is our blessed guide.

Words: © 2025 Michael McFarland Campbell. All rights reserved.
Tune: Appleton 8.6.8.8.6.7. © 2025 Thurlow Weed. All rights reserved.