How Good Lord to be Here
How good, Lord, to be here
This hymn articulates the Lutheran understanding of the Transfiguration as a proleptic vision of Christ's glorified state and a confirmation of his identity as God's Son, strengthening faith during earthly pilgrimage. It reflects the Lutheran emphasis on Christ as the center of Scripture and the consolation of witnessing divine glory made manifest.
History & Background
Written by Joseph Majory Robinson in 1888, this hymn was first published in "Hymns Ancient and Modern, Revised" (1892). It has become a standard hymn for Transfiguration Sunday in Lutheran, Anglican, and other Protestant traditions.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 576
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 374
- Glory to God — 403
- The Hymnal 1982 — 444
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 89
- Lutheran Service Book — 414
- Lutheran Worship — 89
- New Century Hymnal — 182
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 135
- United Methodist Hymnal — 173
- Voices Together — 248
Bulletin Note
Penned by Joseph Majory Robinson in 1888, this Transfiguration hymn captures the Lutheran conviction that Christ's glorified state both confirms his divinity and calls believers to faithful pilgrimage on earth.
Preaching Connection
This hymn moves the hearer from gospel comfort (beholding Christ's divine glory as confirmation of his identity) to law-shaped discipleship (descending the mount to follow him in obedient service), embodying the complete movement of Law and Gospel.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Proclamation of Christ's resurrection → Historical redemptive work → Congregational response in praise → Cosmic significance of salvation
Themes
Transfiguration Divine glory Contemplation of Christ Heavenly vision Discipleship