PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, Cycle C: The Epiphany of Our Lord, January 6, 2019

 

Let us draw near to the Throne of Grace, offering prayer and supplication on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Most holy God, thank you for filling all creation with light and life. Thank you for revealing your dear Son in the splendor of the light he has shared eternally with you. Thank you for making him, your Word made flesh, into an unfailing lamp to our feet and light to our path. Enlighten our hearts, illuminate our minds, and brighten our pilgrim-way, with the dear presence of Christ, our Light and our Life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Brighten with the fair beauty of Christ the Church in every land. Make it radiant with holiness, charity, and faithfulness. Use it to draw many who are afar off to worship and adore you. Be the true light and life of all who are persecuted on account of you.  Give them the wisdom of the magi, the obedience of Joseph, and the faithfulness of Mary. Turn the hearts of their adversaries away from sin and hatred, and toward you in repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray your favor upon this new year; upon our hopes and resolutions for a better future; and upon all for whom the new year seems to bring no release from the sorrows and cares of the previous years. Give us minds, hearts and wills to seek your will for our common good. And draw us in steadfast hope toward that great and eternal New Year that you alone can bring about.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring the light of your strong saving love into every heart, every ministry, every word and deed of this congregation. Light the flame of kindliness and generosity in our midst, so that we may share with our families, neighbors and world the great and good gifts you have bestowed on us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

It is so easy for earthly rulers to listen to counsels of fear, greed, power, expediency and lies. Grant to all of them, especially to our elected and appointed leaders, those in the military, and all first responders, a heart to hear and heed your Word, and the will to act according to it, for the benefit of the people entrusted to their care. Help all of us to listen, speak and act with patience and prudence, and to strive to live at peace with all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the light and salvation, the joy and the song, of everyone who calls upon you in times of trouble. We plead especially on behalf of: {List}. Renew in them the great gifts of health, wholeness, and hope. Ease the burdens and bless the labors of all who care for them. Refresh their spirits, and bind us all together in cords of mutual care and compassion.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

The generations rise and fall and pass before you, O Lord; and we entrust our beloved dead into your sure and merciful care. Comfort those whose grief runs deep and whose hope falters. Give us eyes to see the sorrow and suffering around us; lips to pray and to encourage; hands to extend in fellowship, blessing and help; and hearts to beat with compassion, forgiveness, and kindness. And grant to all whom you have redeemed, through the priceless gift of your Son’s Incarnation, Passion, and Resurrection, a portion in that imperishable inheritance you have prepared for them. Bring us into your Kingdom, where you reign in the unity of your Son and the Holy Spirit, God forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers, most holy Father, in accordance with your wisdom and mercy for us, and in the name of your dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH: December 30, 2018: First Sunday After Christmas

 

With joy and gratitude for the gift of Christ the Savior, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

Dear Father, thank you for Jesus, who, though your eternal Son, is also our brother – “flesh of our flesh and bone of our bone.” Thank you for bringing him through all the stages of our life – and even our death. Thank you for revealing who Jesus is, and why you sent him. Grant us joy as we bid farewell to one earthly year and greet another; and turn our hearts, eyes, and lives toward Christ, our eternal Dayspring and our heart’s delight.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church into the true Temple of the Lord Jesus. There, reveal him as your light and glory for all people, and there, enthrone him as your Word, wisdom, and salvation for the whole world. Unite your persecuted servants to him, so they may confound their tormentors’ scorn and call them to repentance.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant safe travel to all who visit loved ones in this joyous season. Give endurance, patience, and a sense of humor to clerks, cashiers, waitstaff, delivery truck drivers, and everyone else who labors at this hectic time. Thank you for co-workers of different faiths who willingly “cover” for Christians during these holy days. Help us to graciously reciprocate, even before we are asked.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift up before you, dear Lord, the many people and committees of our congregation. Keep our focus on loving you, caring for one another, and sharing the Gospel with those who do not yet know Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Our Christmas cards and carols so often speak of peace and goodwill. Yet we see anger, suspicion, discord, even hatred all around us. Most gracious God, we implore you to give every person – of every race, creed, political persuasion, and circumstance in life – a foretaste of that eternal and glorious peace which is the hallmark of your Kingdom. Clothe each of us with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, forgiveness, and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring “tidings of comfort and joy” to everyone burdened by suffering, sin, and sorrow, especially those we name before you: {List}. Gladden the hearts of their loved ones, and give compassion and wisdom to all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for the salvation you have granted to all who have died trusting in your promised mercy. Ease the grief of those who mourn in this season of joy. Lead us into the New Year and on into your eternal Kingdom, with the light of Christ around us; with his peace ruling our hearts; and with his word dwelling in us richly. Gather us, with everyone whom you have redeemed through the merits of your dear Son, at your festal Table, where in the power of the Holy Spirit, we joyfully praise and worship you, One God in three Persons, forever and ever and unto the ages of ages.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Thank you for hearing our prayers, dear Lord. We entrust them, and our lives, into your merciful care. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH: December 24, 2018: Christmas Eve and December 25, Christmas Day

 

With joy and gratitude for the gift of Christ the Savior, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

Dear Father, thank you for giving us your Son – because only in Him may we be bold to call you Abba, Father! Thank you for being God-with-us. Thank you for fleshing out your love, forgiveness, and peace, in a way we can approach, touch, and believe in our trembling and death-shadowed hearts. Thank you for bringing us the light of eternity in this Babe of Bethlehem, Mary’s boy, your Son, and our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your Church throughout the world, and make it a place where all may hear the angel’s song and hasten to see and to adore Jesus, who is their Lord and Savior. Shelter your persecuted Church in your arms, so they may gather to worship in peace and rise to serve you in joy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless our guests and visitors, especially those whose faith wavers and whose hearts are heavy. Give them a glimpse of the joys you have prepared for all who love you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation – its people and programs, its worship and service. Grace all we do with your strong saving love, so that we freely share, today and always, the Christmas gift of Jesus with those who do not know him – indeed, with all who need him most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless our country, this world, and all its people and creatures, with peace and good will; with health and safety; with kindness and justice; with food for body and soul; and with love for you and one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless everyone for whom this season of joy is dimmed by sorrow, pain, loneliness, and everything else that is inflicted by evil’s power working through human hands or natural disaster. Come with healing in your wings; with tidings of great joy; and with light and life for all.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Bless all who mourn with the certainty that you have opened heaven’s doors to all who have died trusting in your promises. Bless us each day of our earthly pilgrimage with peace and mercy, reconciliation and joy. Add lead us, at length, we pray, to your bright courts of heaven, and to your endless day.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for hearing our prayers, dear Lord. We entrust them, and our lives, into your merciful care. Amen.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, December 23, 2018: 4^th Sunday in Advent

 

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Dear heavenly Father, our hearts are filled with the joyous expectation of Christmas! And they are also filled with a deep and restless yearning for your peace and justice, mercy and righteousness, to shine on our broken world and heal all our sad divisions. You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, come quickly to save and heal us! Let us gaze upon the face of your dear Son, and know that your love shines there to bless, heal, redeem and save us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore your Church, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that she may be saved. Fill her with your most Holy Spirit, so that through her witness, your Son’s self-offering may reach and redeem all people. Grant that those who have been fed the bread of tears because they bless the name of Jesus, may be filled with good things. Cast down their tormentors. Humble them, and lead them to repent of their evil.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless our children, O God, and let your face shine, that they may be saved. Help us share with them a childlike wonder and delight in the gifts of peace, mercy and joy that you give us in your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore our congregation, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved. Grant that through words of Law and Gospel, and deeds of compassion and mercy, we may cause many hearts to leap with joy at the close approach of their Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore your world, O God; let your face shine, that it may be saved. Cast down the haughty and selfish from places of power, and raise up rulers who rejoice in doing your will. Grant that all they do should be in accord with your will. Shield all who stand in harm’s way on our behalf from harm to body, mind or soul. Fill every heart with humility and compassion, so that the poor and hungry may be filled with good things. Remember your promise of mercy, and establish your peace among all nations, kindred, families and tribes upon earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Restore all who are afflicted by pain, grief, fear or despair, O God; let your face shine, that they might be saved.  We pray especially for {List}. Remove the cup of tears from their lips, and remember unto them your promise of mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have let your face shine upon our beloved dead, O God, and have bestowed on them the fullness of your salvation. With gratitude and affection, we commend them into your care. Grant comfort to those who still eat the bread and drink the cup of tears. Feed them, and all of us, with those good things given by your beloved Son – the Bread of Life and the Cup of Blessing. Grant that, as we approach the celebration of Jesus’ birth, we may be filled with heavenly joy and peace, until that day when, with cherubim and seraphim, with the hosts of heaven, with the blessed Mother of our Lord and with the countless throngs of prophets, apostles, martyrs, saints, and the whole of your new creation, we may sing our praises gaze upon the blessed light of His face forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For all these things; for all we lift before you in the silence of our hearts; and for everything that you know we need, we pray in the name and power of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commend into your mighty and merciful hands.

Amen.

 

 

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, December 16, 2018: 3^rd Sunday in Advent

 

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for the joy, righteousness, peace, and love you lavish upon us through the gift of your dear Son! Thank you for every instance of healing, forgiveness, reconciliation, and hope that happens in this sin-damaged and death-shadowed world. Thank you for your peace that passes human understanding and endures past human malice. Whatever our circumstances, give us hearts filled with lasting joy and imperishable hope, so we may thank and bless you for Jesus, and lead others to experience the blessed joy of knowing him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church resplendent with faithfulness, holiness, and joy, so that many hearts are gladdened as they turn to Jesus in faith. Comfort your persecuted Church, and let them rejoice in knowing you are near. Let their gentleness be known to everyone, even their tormentors. And guard their minds and hearts in Christ Jesus their Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you those whom it is easy to ignore: prisoners, refugees, and people in mental institutions, nursing homes, or homeless shelters. Help us to shed the light of your love upon them – and also the light of simple human kindness. Help us to speak your word of peace, forgiveness, and salvation to them – and also a word of understanding, sympathy, and friendship.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your dearest blessing to the people and ministries of this congregation. Let us be a people in whom your Word is fulfilled: “Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will kiss each other. He will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make the leaders of every nation acknowledge your justice, and govern in obedience to it. Let faithfulness spring up from every human heart, and your righteousness look down from the sky. Strengthen, protect and guide those who serve and protect others, defend liberty, and establish justice and safety here and abroad. Show them your steadfast love; direct their deeds in righteous pathways; and restore them to their loved ones when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach all who suffer in body, mind or spirit, to turn to the One who made the deaf hear, the blind see, and the lame walk. We especially pray for: {List}. Give them such confidence in you that they truly do not worry about anything, but lift their needs to you by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. Grant your peace to them and all who love them, and guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, as we await the coming of your Son in glory, we also await a joyful reunion with our departed oved ones. Help us to comfort and cheer those whose hearts are heavy with grief. Make us gentle, faithful, joyful and steadfast in love. Fulfill the promise made to your prophet: that you will rejoice over your people with gladness; renew us in your love; and exult over us with loud singing as on a day of festival. Remove from us the disaster of sin, evil, and death, so that we will not bear reproach for it.  And bring us, with all who have been redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus, into your everlasting home, where we shall rejoice in your goodness forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For all these things; for all we lift before you in the silence of our hearts; and for everything that you know we need, we pray in the name and power of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commend into your mighty and merciful hands.

Amen.

 

 

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, December 9, 2018: 2^nd Sunday in Advent

 

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Dear Father, at times we experience your love as a refiner’s fire. You burn away our sins and purify our bodies, hearts, minds, and spirits to perfectly love you and our neighbor. Though we tremble beneath your chastening touch, we thank and praise you for not abandoning us to our sins. In your tender compassion, let your Sun of Righteousness dawn upon us, to make our lives bright with holiness and joy, righteousness and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring to completion that good work which you have begun in the Church. Refine its words and purify its deeds. Make its pastors and bishops your heralds of Messiah’s close approach. Produce a harvest of righteousness, repentance, and faith in its people. Purify the hearts of your persecuted servants. Let their suffering be a fragrant offering to you; and let their witness shine like gold before their tormentors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask your blessing upon all who give gifts to the poor, especially to children. Grant joy in the giving and delight in the receiving. And let each gift become a small token of your lavish gift of salvation and forgiveness, bestowed in your own beloved Son Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give the people of this congregation hearts overflowing with love, and minds filled with wisdom and sound judgment. Bless all who participate in ministries of service, comfort, and care; so that those to whom they minister experience the blessing of Christ himself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our elected and appointed leaders. Grant that, unlike Herod, they heed the words of John the Baptist, acknowledge you as their sovereign Lord, and govern with wisdom. Teach all of us to be honest, generous and humble stewards of your gifts. Give us that peace which is the hallmark of your Kingdom in our midst.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

John spoke wise words to soldiers who came to him for baptism. Grant integrity, courage and competence to all who take up arms in defense of life and liberty, especially {List}. Use them to restore safety and justice in dangerous places. Spare them from death; heal them in mind and body; strengthen their families; and bring them home swiftly when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Remove the burden of pain, fear, and sorrow from the backs of all who suffer in any way. Most especially we lift before you the needs of {List}. Bring them into a broad and spacious place where they may rejoice in your goodness and give thanks for their deliverance.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Merciful Father, we entrust into your never-failing care our beloved dead, especially: {List}. Ease the sorrow of those whose grief runs deep. Revive our spirits, direct our days and our deeds in your peace, and make us abound in love and in every good work. Strengthen our hearts with the gift of your Spirit, so that we may be blameless at the coming of Jesus. And gather us, with all the redeemed, into your eternal Kingdom, where we shall rejoice in your goodness and righteousness forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For all these things; for all we lift before you in the silence of our hearts; and for everything that you know we need, we pray in the name and power of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commend into your mighty and merciful hands.

Amen.

 

 

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, December 2, 2018: 1^st Sunday of Advent

 

For the Church, the world, for one another, and for the sake of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

How precious is your love, dear Father, and how vast your mercy! You made great and solemn promises to your people Israel – and through them, to the whole world. And in your dear son Jesus, each of your promises finds its eternal Yes. Prepare our hearts in this Advent season for his threefold coming among us: As the Babe of Bethlehem, veiled in human flesh. As the Head of the Church, veiled in word and water, bread and wine. And as the Lord and Savior, Redeemer and King of the universe, veiled only in robes of light and love and life, the glorious Yes who fulfills your ancient promises, and our eternal heart’s desire.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill your Church with your Holy Spirit, so it may instruct sinners in your way. Strengthen it in holiness. Give it boldness to proclaim your Word that shall never pass away. Make it abound in love, especially when persecuted, so that its enemies do not exult, but instead repent and believe the Good News.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the Jews, our elder brothers and sisters in the faith and kin, in their flesh, to Jesus the righteous Branch of David. Banish persecution and hatred of them from every human heart. Unite us with them in faith toward you and fervent love for one another. Bring us together under the glorious and gentle rule of our Savior and theirs.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Adorn this congregation with faith, love, mercy, generosity, and holiness – things more beautiful and enduring than wreaths, trees, ornaments, and lights. Turn our hearts and hands to adorn all who are hurting, bitter, frightened, and needy, with these lovely gifts.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach us to live at peace with one another; to seek your will rather than our own; and to use whatever power and authority any of us has for the common good. Give wisdom, integrity, courage, and common sense to our elected and appointed leaders, and to all who risk their lives in defense of liberty, justice, safety, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of everyone who is in special need of your merciful care and glorious deliverance – especially: {List}. Gladden their hearts, heal their bodies, uphold their spirits with your own Holy Spirit, and surround them with the love and care of all who hold them dear.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Merciful Father, we entrust into your never-failing care our beloved dead, especially: {List}. Ease the sorrow of those whose grief runs deep. Revive our spirits, direct our days and our deeds in your peace, and make us abound in love and in every good work. Strengthen our hearts with the gift of your Spirit, so that we may be blameless at the coming of Jesus. And gather us, with all the redeemed, into your eternal Kingdom, where we shall rejoice in your goodness and righteousness forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For all these things; for all we lift before you in the silence of our hearts; and for everything that you know we need, we pray in the name and power of our Lord Jesus Christ, and commend into your mighty and merciful hands.

 

Amen.

 

 

 

Lessons and Hymn Suggestions

Advent-Transfiguration of Our Lord, Cycle C

December 2, 2018 – March 3, 2019

 

NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

 

There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.

 

Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the standard Revised Common Lectionary, found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.

 

December 2, 2018: 1^st Sunday of Advent

 

Jeremiah 33:14-16 (The righteous branch of David will spring up)

Psalm 25:1-10 (Be mindful of your mercy, instruct sinners in your way, do not let enemies exult)

1 Thessalonians 3:8-13 (The Lord make you abound in love, and strengthen hearts in holiness, 

that you may be blameless at the coming of Jesus)

Luke 21:25-36 (The Son of Man comes; heaven and earth will pass away, but not my words)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #32, Fling Wide the Door (ELW #259)

OR LSB #340, Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates; a nice translation)

OR LSB #339, Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Everlasting Doors

Hymn of the Day: LBW #28, Savior of the Nations, Come (LSB #332, ELW #263)

OR   LBW #33, The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns (LSB #348, ELW #260)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW#22, The Advent of Our God (LSB #331, The Advent of Our King)

OR ELW #359, Where Charity and Love Prevail (goes with Epistle)   (LBW #126, LSB #845)

Communion Hymn #2: WOV #627, My Lord, What a Morning (LSB #968, ELW #438)

Closing Hymn: LBW #322, The Clouds of Judgment Gather (a much more upbeat hymn than the first line indicates. If the tune is tough, sing it to “Aurelia,” aka “The Church’s One Foundation.” Or use what LSB uses- “Llangloffan,” a sturdy Welsh tune.) (LSB #513)

            OR ELW #438, My Lord, What a Morning (WOV #627)

 

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December 9, 2018: 2^nd Sunday of Advent

 

Malachi 3:1-7b (I will send my messenger; refiner’s fire; presents God’s people for judgment)

ELW: Malachi 3:1-4 (no presentation for judgment)

Psalm 66:1-12 (You refined and tested us, and brought us into spacious place)

            ELW: Luke 1:68-79 (the song of Zechariah)

Philippians 1:2-11 (Prayer that they may overflow with love, wisdom and insight, and be blameless at the day of Christ, having produced harvest of righteousness)

Luke 3:1-14(15-20) (The ministry of John the Baptist)

ELW: Luke 3:1-6 (the rest comes next week)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #37, Hark! A Thrilling Voice is Sounding (The words are great. This tune is weird. I suggest using the tune that every sensible hymnal uses, including SBH, ELW and LSB, “Merton.” You can also use “Rathbun” which in LBW is used for “In the Cross of Christ I Glory”.) (LSB #345, ELW #246)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #556, Herald, Sound the Note of Judgment (LSB #511)

          OR ELW #552, Blest Be the God of Israel

OR WOV #725, Blessed Be the God of Israel (ELW #250)

          OR LSB #936, Sing Praise to the God of Israel

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #630, Light One Candle to Watch for Messiah (ELW #240)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #36, On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry (LSB #344, ELW #249)

Closing Hymn: LBW #29, Comfort, Comfort Now My People (LSB #347, ELW #256)

 

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December 16, 2018: 3^rd Sunday of Advent

 

Zephaniah 3:14-20 (Shout for joy, daughter of Zion! God comes as warrior and lover)

Psalm 85 (Show us your steadfast love, grant us your salvation; love and faithfulness meet; righteousness and peace kiss)

            ELW: Isaiah 12:2-6 (God is my salvation, give thanks, sing praise, make his name known)

Philippians 4:4-7 (Rejoice in the Lord always; God’s peace, which passes understanding, guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus)

Luke 7:18-28 (29-35) (Tell John you have seen the lame walk, the blind given sight, and the poor given the Gospel)

            ELW: Luke 3:17-18: (Ministry of John, stopping short of being put in prison)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #32, Fling Wide the Door (ELW #259)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #35, Hark, the Glad Sound! (LSB #349, ELW #239)

          OR LSB #849, Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness (ELW #843; different tune, but either is familiar)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #537, O Jesus, King Most Wonderful

          OR ELW #242, Awake, Awake, and Greet the New Morn (WOV #633)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #530, Jesus Shall Reign Where E’er the Sun (LSB #832, ELW #434)

Closing Hymn: LBW #25, Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers (LSB #515, ELW #244)

 

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December 23, 2018: 4^th Sunday of Advent

 

Micah 5:2-5a (From Bethlehem comes the mighty Shepherd who will feed his flock)

Psalm 80:1-7 (Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine! Stir up your might! Restore us; let your face shine, that we may be saved.

Hebrews 10:5-10 (Christ comes to do God’s will and sanctify us by his offering)

Luke 1:39-56 (Magnificat!)

 

Opening Hymn:  LBW #58, Lo, How a Rose is Growing (LSB #359, ELW #272, Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming – traditional words and nice harmonization. I suggest this version.)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #180, My Soul Now Magnifies the Lord (LSB #934)

          OR LSB #346, When All the World Was Cursed (Trust me. Familiar tune, and verse 2 is perfect for today)

          OR ELW #266, All Earth is Hopeful

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #34, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (LSB #357, ELW 257)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #42, Of the Father’s Love Begotten (LSB #384, ELW #295)

Closing Hymn: LBW #41, O Little Town of Bethlehem (LSB #361, ELW #279)

 

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December 24, 2018: Christmas Eve, the Nativity of Our Lord

 

Isaiah 9:2-7 (The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; for to us a child is born; his name is Wonderful Counsellor…)

Psalm 96 (The Lord is king; he will judge world with righteousness and the people with his truth)

Titus 2:11-14 (We wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ. He gave himself for us, redeems us from iniquity, and purifies for himself a people zealous for good deeds)

 Luke 2:1-20 (The Nativity of Jesus Christ)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #45, O Come, All Ye Faithful (LSB #379, ELW #283)

Hymn of Praise: LBW #71, Angels We Have Heard on High (LSB #368, ELW #289)

Gradual Hymn: LBW #55, Good Christian Friends, Rejoice (ELW #288)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #54, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear (LSB #366, ELW #282)

          OR LSB #362, O Sing of Christ (tune is “I sing th’almighty power of God”)

Offertory Hymn: LBW #40, What Child is This (ELW #296)

Communion Hymns: Use as many as needed for your circumstance!

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #69, I Am So Glad Each Christmas Eve (ELW #271)

Communion Hymn #2:  LBW #67, Away in a Manger (LSB #364, 365; ELW #277, 278)

Communion Hymn #3: LBW #44, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (LSB #393, ELW #276)

Communion Hymn #4: LBW #41, O Little Town of Bethlehem (LSB #361, ELW #279)

Candle-Lighting Hymn: LBW #65, Silent Night (LSB #363, ELW #281)

Closing Hymn: LBW #39, Joy to the World (LSB #387, ELW #267)

 

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December 25, 2018: Christmas Day, the Nativity of Our Lord

 

Isaiah 52:7-10 (How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, brings good news, announces salvation, and who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”)

Psalm 2 (He said to me, “You are my son; today I have begotten you. Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage, and the ends of the earth your possession.)

            ELW: Psalm 98 (Sing joyous praise to the Lord, who comes to judge with righteousness!)

Hebrews 1:1-12 (In many and various ways, God spoke to his people of old by the prophets; but now in these last days, he has spoken to us by his Son.)

John 1:1-18 (In the beginning was the Word; the Word became flesh and dwelt among us; we have beheld his glory, full of grace and truth…)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #50, Angels, From the Realms of Glory (LSB #367, ELW #275)

Hymn of Praise: LBW #60, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing (LSB #380, ELW #270)

Gradual Hymn: LBW #51, v. 1-4, 12-14, From Heaven Above to Earth I Come

          (LSB #358, v. 1-4, 13-15; ELW #268, v. 1-4, 12-14)

Hymn of the Day: ELW #269, Once in Royal David’s City (LSB #376, WOV #643)

          OR LBW #73, All Hail to You, O Blessed Morn

          OR the 1-verse wonder of the same tune, LSB #43, Rejoice, Rejoice This Happy Morn

          OR LSB #378, Break Forth, O Beauteous Heavenly Light. I can’t believe this isn’t in LBW.)

Offertory Hymn: ELW #294, In the Bleak Midwinter

          OR  LBW #40, What Child is This (ELW #296)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW#62, The Bells of Christmas (ELW #298)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #58, Lo How a Rose (ELW #272)

Closing Hymn: LBW #70, Go Tell it on the Mountain (ELW #290)

 

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December 30, 2019: Christmas 1

 

Exodus 13:1-3a, 11-15 (Consecrate the firstborn males of your people; for I redeemed you out of slavery by killing Egyptian firstborn)

          ELW: 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 (The child Samuel ministers at Shiloh)

Psalm 111 (Great are God’s works; the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom)

Colossians 3:12-17 (Clothe selves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, forgiveness, love. Let peace of Christ rule in your hearts, and his word dwell in you richly)

Luke 2:22-40 (In Temple, Simeon and Anna glorify God for Jesus, the fulfillment of his promises)

            ELW: Luke 2:41-5 (the boy Jesus with the elders in the Temple)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #57, Let Our Gladness Have No End (LSB #381, ELW #291)

Hymn of Praise: LBW #60, Hark, the Herald Angels Sing (LSB#380, ELW #270)

Gradual Hymn: WOV #716, Word of God, Come Down on Earth (LSB #545, ELW #510)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #184, In His Temple Now Behold Him (LSB #519, ELW #417)

             OR LBW #30, Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus (LSB #338, ELW #254)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #41, O Little Town of Bethlehem (LSB #361, ELW #279)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #56, The First Noel (ELW #300)

Closing Hymn: LBW #339, O Lord, Now Let Your Servant (ELW #313)

 

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January 6, 2019: The Epiphany of Our Lord

 

Isaiah 60:1-6 (Arise, shine, your Light has come; kings shall bring riches)

Psalm 72:1-11(12-15) (Give the king justice, O God, let kings from far away bring tribute)

Ephesians 3:1-12 (Paul is an apostle to the Gentiles, who are granted fullness of salvation through Christ)

Matthew 2:1-12 (The wise men come to worship Jesus, return home by another way)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #82, As With Gladness Men of Old (LSB #397; ELW #302)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #81, O Chief of Cities, Bethlehem (a nice English folk tune. And the words really shouldn’t be missed. If you think the tune is more than your folks can handle, use tune for “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”)

          OR LBW #265, Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies (LSB #873; ELW #553)

          OR LSB #399, v. 1, 2, 5, The Star Proclaims the King is Here

Offertory Hymn: LBW #84, Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning (LSB #400; ELW #303)

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #646, We Three Kings of Orient Are

          OR ELW #307, Light Shone in Darkness

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #75, Bright and Glorious is the Sky (ELW #301)

Closing Hymn: LBW #76, O Morning Star, How Fair and Bright (LSB #395; ELW #308) (you may, for the sake of time, use just verses 1, 4, 6; or, if you choose to not use LBW #81 as the Hymn of the day, then use#76, v. 1-4 in that place, and use v.5-6 as the closing hymn)

 

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January 13, 2019: The Baptism of Our Lord

 

Isaiah 43:1-7 (I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior)

Psalm 29 (Ascribe glory to the Lord; his mighty voice resounds over the waters)

Romans 6:1-11 (We are baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ)

            ELW:  Acts 8:14-17 (Peter and John lay hands on those baptized in Jesus’ name, they receive Spirit)

Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 (John speaks of the One who will baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit; the baptism of Jesus)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #546, When Morning Gilds the Skies (ELW #853)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #191, Praise and Thanksgiving Be to God Our Maker (ELW #458) (tune is same as for “Father Most Holy”)

          OR LSB #405, To Jordan’s River Came Our Lord

          OR WOV #647, When Jesus Came to Jordan (ELW #305)

          OR LSB #399, v. 1, 3, 5, The Star Proclaims the King is Here

Communion Hymn #1: LBW 507, How Firm a Foundation (LSB #728, ELW #796)

           OR ELW #454, Remember and Rejoice

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #548, O Worship the King (LSB #804, ELW #842)

Closing Hymn: LBW #188, I Bind Unto Myself Today (LSB #604, ELW #450) (Note: ELW and LSB conveniently have this laid out on 2 facing pages. LSB also has a verse that has been omitted from LBW and ELW. If you dare, add it: “Against the demon snares of sin, the vice that gives temptation force, the natural lusts that war within, the hostile foes that mar my course; Or few or many, far or nigh, in ev’ry place, and in all hours, against their fierce hostility, I bind to me those holy pow’rs!)

 

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January 20, 2019: 2^nd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 1

 

Isaiah 62:1-5 (Zion shall be the beautiful and beloved bride of God)

Psalm 128 (The blessedness of family life for those who love God)

            ELW: Psalm 36:5-10 (God’s steadfast love, righteousness, judgments, salvation are for all. “In your light we see light.”)

1 Corinthians 12:1-11 (no one speaking by the Spirit of God says “Let Jesus be cursed;” no one says “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. There are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit)

John 2:1-11 (Wedding at Cana)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #90, Songs of Thankfulness and Praise (LSB #394, ELW #310)

Hymn of the Day: LSB #408, Come, Join in Cana’s Feast

          OR LBW #78, All Praise to You, O Lord

          OR ELW #312, Jesus, Come! For We Invite You

          OR LSB #399, v. 1, 4, 5, The Star Proclaims the King is Here

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #457, 458, Jesus, Priceless Treasure (LSB #743, ELW #775)

          OR ELW #487, What Feast of Love (WOV #701)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #205, Now the Silence (LSB #910, ELW #460)

Closing Hymn: LBW #224, Soul, Adorn Yourself With Gladness (LSB #636, ELW #488, 489 {the latter is a lovely Hispanic tune, same words})

 

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January 27, 2019: 3^rd Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 2

 

Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 (Ezra reads the book of Moses, instructs the people; Nehemiah declares a day of feasting)

Psalm 19:1-14 (The heavens proclaim God’s glory; my heart rejoices in his precepts. Let the words of my mouth and meditation of my heart be acceptable in his sight)

1 Corinthians 12:12-31a (The unity of the Body of Christ)

Luke 4:16-30 (Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah concerning the healing of the poor, lame, blind and imprisoned, declaring that today that Word has been fulfilled)

              ELW: Luke 4:14-21 (Rest heard next week)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #87, Hail to the Lord’s Anointed (LSB #398; ELW #311)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #380, O Christ Our Light, Our Radiance True (ELW #675) (LSB #839, O Christ, Our True and Only Light)

          OR LSB #412, The People That in Darkness Sat

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #410, We Give Thee But Thine Own (LSB #781, ELW #686)

          OR WOV #652, Arise, Your Light Has Come (ELW #314)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #425, O God of Mercy, God of Might (LSB #852; ELW #714; both are “O God of Mercy, God of Light”)

Closing Hymn: LBW #559, O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing (LSB #528, ELW #886)

 

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February 3, 2019: 4^th Sunday after the Epiphany, Proper 3

 

Jeremiah 1:4-10, 17-19 (God calls Jeremiah to speak his Word)

            ELW: Jeremiah 1:4-10 (Omits “Gird up your loins, tell them everything I speak against them; I make you like a fortified city”)

Psalm 71:1-11 (O God, be my rock of refuge; deliver me from my enemies; rescue me from the cruel and wicked)

            ELW: Psalm 71:1-6 (Eliminates obeisance of the King’s enemies)

1 Corinthians 12:31b-13:13 (In praise of charity; faith, hope and love abide, the greatest is love)

Luke 4:31-44 (Jesus casts out demon in temple; heals Peter’s mother-in-law; tells assorted demons to take a hike and shut up about him)

          ELW: Luke 4:21-30 (The worshippers take offense at Jesus’ words, try to run him off cliff)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #315, Love Divine, All Loves Excelling (LSB #700, ELW #631)

Hymn of the Day: ELW #843, Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness (LSB #849)

OR LBW #400, God, Whose Almighty Word (ELW #673)

          OR ELW #44, Although I Speak With Heaven’s Tongue

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #126, Where Charity and Love Prevail (LSB #845, ELW #359)

          OR ELW #642, Ubi Caritas et Amor

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #406, Take My Life, That I May Be (LSB #783, 784; ELW #583, 685)

Closing Hymn: LSB #695, Not for Tongues of Heaven’ Angels

          OR LBW #359, In Christ There is no East or West (LSB #653, ELW #650)

 

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February 10, 2019: Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 4

 

Isaiah 6: 1-13 (Isaiah’s vision of God and commissioning as a prophet of judgment)

Psalm 138 (All shall praise God; he is high, yet regards the lowly. Preserve and save me from my foes, and fulfil your purpose for me!)

1 Corinthians 14:12b-20 (Spiritual gifts; interpretation is greater than tongues)

            ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 (Proof and witnesses of the Resurrection)

Luke 5:1-11 (Jesus calls his first disciples; “Depart from me for I am a sinful man!”)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #165, Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty (LSB #507, ELW #413)

Hymn of the Day: ELW #580, How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord (LSB #853)

          OR LBW #381, Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling (LSB #826, “Hark the Voice of Jesus CRYING.” But LSB #827, confusingly, is called “Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling,” is similar, and certainly just as appropriate!)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #249, God Himself is Present (LSB #907)

          OR ELW #473, Holy, Holy Holy (sing through 3x)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #198, Let All Mortal flesh Keep Silence (LSB #621, ELW #490)

Closing Hymn: (if using 1 Cor. 15 text): LBW #189, We Know That Christ is Raised   (LSB #603, ELW #449)

          (if using 1 Cor. 14 text): LBW #415, God of Grace and God of Glory (LSB #850, ELW #705)

 

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February 17, 2019: Sixth Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 5

 

Jeremiah 17:5-8 (Cursed are those who trust mortals; they are like shrub in desert. Blessed are  those who trust God; they are like tree planted by water)

Psalm 1 (Ditto! The wicked shall not withstand judgment. God preserves the righteous.)

1 Corinthians 15:1-20 (The proofs and witnesses to the Resurrection. Consequences of believing or disbelieving that Christ is raised.)

          ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 (Did first half last week!)

Luke 6:17-26 (Jesus heals; blessings and woes from Sermon on the Plain)

 

Opening Hymn: LSB #705, The Man is Ever Blessed (nice paraphrase of Psalm 1 and 1^st lesson!)

          OR LBW #227, How Blest are They Who Hear God’s Word (I know, you don’t know the tune and there’s no substitute possible. Try it anyway. It is very easy, from the Danish Psalter.)

          OR LBW #248, Dearest Jesus, At Your Word (ELW #520) (LSB #904, Blessed Jesus, at Your Word)

Hymn of the Day: WOV #764, Blest Are They (LSB #982, ELW #728)

          OR LBW #300, O Christ, Our Hope (LSB #553, ELW #604)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #352, I Know That My Redeemer Lives! (LSB #461, ELW #619)

Communion Hymn #2: you may not need one… 😉

Closing Hymn: (if you did NOT read the 1 Cor. 15 text last Sunday):

          LBW #189, We Know That Christ is Raised (LSB #603, ELW #449)

          (Otherwise…!) LBW #504, O God, My Faithful God (LSB #696)

          OR ELW #715, Christ, Be Our Light

 

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February 24, 2019: Seventh Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 6

 

Genesis 45:3-15 (Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and forgives them)

Psalm 103:1-13 (Bless the Lord, O my soul! As far as the east is from the west, so far does God remove our sins from us)

1 Corinthians 15:21-26, 30-42 (The consequences of the Resurrection; more than hoping in human power; the resurrection of the faithful, and glorified bodies)

          ELW: 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 (The resurrection body)

Luke 6:27-38 (Love enemies; be merciful, as Father is. Forgive and give, and you will be forgiven and will be given much!)

 

Opening Hymn: LBW #270, God of Our Life, All-Glorious Lord (Relax, the tune is the same as for “Holy God, We Praise Your Name!”)

          OR LBW #269, Awake, My Soul, and With The Sun (LSB #868, ELW #557)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #424, Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us (LSB # 851, ELW #707)

          OR LBW #307, Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive (LSB #843, ELW #605)

          OR ELW #603, God, When Human Bonds Are Broken (It’s a familiar tune!)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #225, Lord Jesus Christ, We Humbly Pray (LSB #623)

          OR ELW #470, Draw Us In the Spirit’s Tether (WOV #703)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #353, May We Your Precepts, Lord, Fulfil (LSB #698)

          OR ELW #646, The Peace of the Lord

Closing Hymn: LBW #505, Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go (If tune is too tough, toot to the Doxology!!)

                (LSB #854 different tune, same suggestion.)

          OR ELW #648, Beloved, God’s Chosen

          OR LSB #479, Christ is Risen, Christ is Living (Nice reflection on 1 Corinthians texts; can also be sung to “Come, Thou Fount of Ev’ry Blessing”)

          OR LBW #363, Christ is Alive! Let Christians Sing (ELW #389)

 

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March 3, 2019: The Transfiguration of Our Lord

 

Deuteronomy 34:1-12 (The death of Moses after God shows him the Promised Land; no one has arisen like Moses, whom God spoke to as a friend, face to face)

ELW: Exodus 34:29-35 (The shining face of Moses)

Psalm 99 (Extol the Lord, who spoke to his servants Moses and Aaron in a pillar of cloud. You, Lord, love justice and establish equity; you forgive sin and avenge wrongdoing)

Hebrews 3:1-6 (Moses was faithful as a servant in God’s house. Jesus is faithful as the Son)

          ELW: 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2 (Unlike with Moses, who had to veil his face to the people after being with                    God,  we look upon the Lord with unveiled faces. Being transfigured from glory unto glory, we put aside                    shameful practices, commend selves to everyone in the sight of God)

Luke 9:28-36 (The Transfiguration of our Lord)

 

Opening Hymn:  WOV #797, O God Beyond All Praising (ELW #880)

          OR LBW #525, Blessing and Honor (ELW #854)

Hymn of the Day:  LBW #80, O Wondrous Type! O Vision Fair!

          (LSB #413; ELW #316, “O Wondrous Image, Vision Fair”)

           LSB #416, Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory (can be sung to tune for “Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service”)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #89, How Good, Lord, to be Here (ELW #315)  (LSB #414, Tis Good, Lord, To Be Here)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #518, Beautiful Savior (LSB #537, ELW #838)

Closing Hymn: LBW #552, In Thee is Gladness (LSB #818, ELW #867)

 

A few years ago, I was transfixed and moved by the story of the 20 Christian martyrs who were beheaded by Islamic terrorists in Libya by the shore of the sea. Their crime: Refusing to curse Christ. There were some powerful things I learned about these brave men.

 

First: they were, as Christians, only allowed to work in certain jobs, mostly menial. But one of the men captured, imprisoned, and killed wasn’t Christian. He was a Muslim from a neighboring country. Not speaking the language well, he, too, was forced to take menial work.

When the captors learned this, they begged their “brother” to reassert his faith in Allah and Mohammed. He refused. While in prison, he was amazed by the faith and the compassion of his cellmates. There with freedom being offered on a platter, he shook his head, pointed to the others, and said, “Their God.”

Finally, some folks wondered why there was only video, no audio, of the actual beheading. The sound was turned off deliberately – for one thing, that brave Muslim had just confessed faith in Jesus. And only skilled lip-readers in their language could make out what the martyrs were saying in their last seconds of life. They were not cursing God – or their captors. They were not begging for mercy. Their words were, “O Jesus! Lord!” Their executioners thought that confession of faith could be silenced by flicking a button. It could not!

The Holy Spirit inspired me to write a poem-hymn in their honor. Only after I’d finished it did I wonder if it fit any halfway familiar, suitable hymn tune! Actually, there are TWO. The first is less familiar but very powerful. It would be perfect for a choir to sing as an anthem. The tune is “Das Neugeborne Kindelein,” and its most familiar use is in the beautiful Communion hymn, “Victim Divine, Your Grace We Claim.” The other is Melita, AKA the Navy Hymn, most familiar to most Lutherans in the hymns “Eternal Father, Strong to Save,” and “My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less.”

I think the Holy Spirit knew those melodies, associated with such noble hymns already, would be perfect for this new  hymn.

 

Download “O Jesus, Lord” (Tune: Das Neugeborne Kindlein) here.

Download “O Jesus, Lord” (Tune: Melita) here.

You’ll see that I have “recycled” the words from the Advent Nunc Dimittis by setting them to a different tune: Von Himmel Hoch, or “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come.” What would a Lutheran choral setting of the liturgy be without a tune by Martin Luther, after all?! And I try to stay pretty faithful to the classic texts for these principal parts of the service, so I don’t get real “creative!” But since many hymns share the same “meter” (the number of beats, or syllables, per line), it means that one set of words can be used to different hymns, depending on the season of the church year and the familiarity of a given tune. Now you know my secret.

 

Download it here.