Feed Thy Children, God Most Holy
Feed Thy children, God most holy
This hymn articulates the Lutheran understanding of God's benevolent care over all creation through His sustaining power. It reflects the theological emphasis on recognizing God's daily gifts and responding with grateful petition and trust.
History & Background
Johann Heermann wrote this hymn in German as "Gott, laß dich erbarmen" in the early 17th century. Catherine Winkworth translated it into English in 1863, and it has appeared in numerous Lutheran hymnals since.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 733
- Lutheran Service Book — 774
- Lutheran Worship — 468
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 659
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Johann Heermann in 1630, this German hymn expresses the Lutheran conviction that God's sustaining power extends to all creation, inviting believers to see daily provisions as tokens of divine grace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens the Gospel's promise by moving from recognizing our total dependence (the Law's exposure) to joyful confidence in God's unfailing provision, making it an excellent musical proclamation of grace.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Fourth Petition Small Catechism — The Lord's Prayer
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law (external threats to faith) → Gospel (Christ's lordship and defense) → Spirit (eschatological comfort and final victory)
Themes
Divine providence Trust in God Daily bread God's care for creation Petition and thanksgiving