God Himself is Present
God Himself is present
The hymn emphasizes the real presence of God in worship and community, reflecting Lutheran sacramental theology and the centrality of God's inhabitation among His people. It combines reverential awe with intimate communion, central to Lutheran piety's balance of majesty and grace.
History & Background
Written by German Pietist Gerhard Tersteegen in 1729 as an expression of contemplative spirituality and reverence for God's presence. The hymn was translated into English by Frederick William Foster in 1907 and became widely used in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 526
- Glory to God — 385
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 249
- Lutheran Service Book — 907
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 532
- Lutheran Worship — 206
- Trinity Hymnal — 74
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 4
- Voices Together — 47
Translation
Bulletin Note
Gerhard Tersteegen (1697–1769), a German Pietist mystic, wrote this hymn to kindle reverence and intimacy in worship. It reflects the Lutheran conviction that God truly dwells among His people in Word and Sacrament.
Preaching Connection
This hymn develops the Gospel movement from Law to grace: the awareness of God's awesome presence awakens us to our need, yet His Word draws us into joyful, intimate communion as forgiven children.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Lord’s Supper Augsburg Confession
Themes
God's presence Reverence in worship Holy fear of the Lord God's majesty Congregational worship