An Awefull Mystery Is Here
An awefull mystery is here
The hymn articulates the Lutheran understanding of the Real Presence and the awe-inspiring mystery of Christ's body and blood in the Sacrament, distinguishing Lutheran practice from both Reformed and Roman Catholic interpretations. It emphasizes faith and reverence before the incomprehensible mystery of God's grace made tangible.
History & Background
This hymn appears in early Lutheran hymnals emphasizing the mystery and theological depth of the Sacrament. The text reflects orthodox Lutheran eucharistic theology and has been preserved in The Lutheran Hymnal (1941) where it appears as hymn 304.
Hymnal Appearances
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 304
Bulletin Note
From 1700, this hymn reflects classic Lutheran sacramental theology: Christ's real presence neither as mere symbol nor magical substance, but as mystery received in faith and reverence.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens the tension between Law and Gospel: the Law arrests us in holy fear before God's otherness in the Sacrament, while the Gospel proclaims Christ's self-emptying love made tangible in the very elements we receive.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Communion Small Catechism — Holy Communion
- Of Lord’s Supper Augsburg Confession
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law reveals emptiness of worldly gain and pride; Gospel proclaims Christ's sacrificial love as sole worthy object of devotion; believer responds with total surrender of self and possessions
Themes
Sacrament of the Altar Mystery of faith Real presence Eucharistic reverence