God the Sculptor of the Mountains

God the sculptor of the mountains, God the miller of the sand

A creation hymn presenting God as sculptor, miller, weaver, and architect of the natural world. The three stanzas move through different dimensions of God's creative work and conclude with the invitation to participate in that creation as the image of God.

History & Background

Written by John Thornburg (b.1954) in 1994. A creation hymn using the imagery of God as artist and craftsman shaping the natural world.

Hymnal Appearances

  • Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 736

Bulletin Note

God the Sculptor of the Mountains — John Thornburg, 1994

Preaching Connection

God as creator and craftsman — humanity as made in the image of the divine artist.

Stanza Arc

The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: The Church's unshakeable foundation in God's immutable word and covenant grace, moving from proclamation of election, to security against enemies, to provision of spiritual sustenance, to assurance of God's protective presence.

Themes

Creation God's Majesty Stewardship Image of God

Look Further