Here O My Lord I See You Face to Face
Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face
This hymn expresses the Lutheran doctrine of the Real Presence of Christ in the Sacrament while emphasizing personal faith and communion with the risen Lord. It balances objective sacramental theology with subjective faith experience in characteristically Lutheran fashion.
History & Background
Written by Scottish Free Church minister Horatius Bonar in 1855, this hymn emerged from deep sacramental theology and personal devotion. It was published in Bonar's hymnal collections and became a staple of Communion liturgy across Lutheran and Reformed traditions.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 503
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 211
- Lutheran Service Book — 631
- Lutheran Worship — 243
Bulletin Note
Horatius Bonar (1808–1889), Scottish Free Church minister, wrote this Communion hymn in 1855, grounding the doctrine of Real Presence in personal faith and the comfort of Christ's abiding presence.
Preaching Connection
This hymn powerfully embodies the Gospel promise that Christ's self-giving sacrifice becomes our present communion, transforming sacramental theology into lived experience of grace.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Communion Small Catechism — Holy Communion
- Of Lord’s Supper Augsburg Confession
Themes
Sacrament of Holy Communion Christ's presence Union with Christ Faith and assurance Gospel comfort