Here, O My Lord, I See Thee Face To Face
Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face
The hymn expresses Lutheran sacramental theology through emphasis on the Real Presence and the believer's mystical union with Christ in Holy Communion. It reflects the Gospel promise of spiritual nourishment and intimate fellowship with the risen Lord through the Sacrament.
History & Background
Written by Scottish Free Church minister Horatius Bonar in 1855 as a Eucharistic hymn emphasizing intimate communion with Christ. The text has been widely adopted in both Reformed and Lutheran hymnals since the late 19th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 416
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 504
- Glory to God — 517
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 211
- Lutheran Service Book — 631
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 283
- Lutheran Worship — 243
- New Century Hymnal — 336
- Trinity Hymnal — 378
- United Methodist Hymnal — 623
- Voices Together — 466
Bulletin Note
Penned by Scottish pastor Horatius Bonar in 1855, this hymn anchors Lutheran sacramental theology in the intimate language of devotion. The tune ADORO TE ('I adore Thee') reinforces the reverent wonder of Christ's Real Presence.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Gospel promise that believers commune with the risen Christ Himself in the Supper, transforming our encounter with grace from doctrine into lived experience and intimate fellowship.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Communion Small Catechism — Holy Communion
- Of Lord’s Supper Augsburg Confession
Themes
Real Presence of Christ Holy Communion Mystical union with Christ Faith and assurance Resurrection joy