Awake, My Heart, with Gladness
Awake, my heart, with gladness
The hymn expresses the Lutheran doctrine of justification through Christ's victorious resurrection, declaring Satan's defeat and the believer's freedom from condemnation. It affirms the eschatological hope central to Lutheran soteriology, grounding Christian assurance in Christ's once-for-all triumph.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this hymn in early 17th century Germany as a joyful Easter proclamation of Christ's victory. It was first published in German hymnals and subsequently translated into English by Philip Schaff in the 19th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 378
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 129
- Lutheran Service Book — 467
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 166
- Lutheran Worship — 128
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 192
- Voices Together — 270
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by German Lutheran Martin Behm in 1610, this Easter hymn captures the defiant joy of the Reformation's assurance of justification—not earned, but freely given through Christ's once-for-all triumph over sin and Satan.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the movement from Law to Gospel: the Law's accusation (Satan's dominion, death's power) gives way entirely to Gospel proclamation (Christ's victorious resurrection liberating the conscience from condemnation).
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From proclamation of Christ's victory, through affirmation of resurrection life, to universal redemption, concluding with God's embracing grace transforming the believer's response to joyful praise
Themes
Christ's resurrection and victory Joy in Christ Deliverance from sin and death Christian hope