A Life Begins, A Child Is Born
A life begins, a child is born
The hymn emphasizes the incarnational mystery—that God became flesh in Christ—connecting this to the gift of each human life. It affirms Lutheran understanding of how God works through ordinary means (birth, family, daily life) to accomplish His purposes.
History & Background
Written by Chad Bird in 2006, this modern hymn was published in Lutheran Service Book (2006) and subsequently included in ELW (2006). It represents contemporary Lutheran hymnody addressing incarnational theology and the blessing of children.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 673
- Lutheran Service Book — 577
Bulletin Note
Composed by Chad F. Bird in 2006, this modern hymn recovers ancient Christmas theology: God became human so that human life—birth, family, baptism—bears eternal significance. A gift to contemporary Lutheran hymnody.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens proclamation of Christ's incarnation by showing how God's assumption of flesh in Jesus affirms the goodness and purpose of all human life—a Gospel word that counters cultural devaluing of the vulnerable.
Themes
Christ's incarnation Sanctity of life Gift of children God's love Blessing