At Even when the Sun did Set
At even when the sun did set
The hymn reflects Lutheran emphasis on Christ as the source of healing and wholeness, connecting physical healing miracles to spiritual restoration. It demonstrates the incarnational theology central to Lutheran Christology, where Christ actively ministers to human need with divine compassion.
History & Background
Written by Henry Twells in 1868, this hymn was first published in Church Hymns (1871). It became widely used in Anglican and Lutheran hymnals throughout the late 19th and 20th centuries.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 644
- The Hymnal 1982 — 165
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 92
- Lutheran Worship — 365
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 557
Bulletin Note
Written by Henry Twells in 1868, this evening hymn draws from the Gospel accounts of Jesus healing the sick at sunset. Its Long Meter accommodates both meditative singing and theological depth about Christ's incarnational care.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's portrayal of Christ as healer of body and soul anchors the Gospel promise that divine mercy embraces our whole selves—a counterweight to any spiritualizing of the incarnation.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From Christ's historical healing ministry (stanza 1) through the proclamation of His redemptive work (stanza 2), to personal petition for spiritual and physical wholeness (stanza 3), culminating in doxological confidence in Christ's healing grace (stanza 4)
Themes
Christ's healing power Evening contemplation Divine compassion Sickness and wholeness Active faith