I am Content! My Jesus Ever Lives
I am content! my Jesus ever lives
The hymn expresses distinctly Lutheran confidence in Christ's resurrection as the foundation for personal eternal hope, reflecting the centrality of Christ's victory in Lutheran soteriology. It embodies the Lutheran emphasis on consolation through Christ's living presence, moving from law's demand to gospel's assurance of resurrection through Christ.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this German hymn in the early 17th century as a meditation on resurrection hope and comfort in Christ. Catherine Winkworth translated it into English in the 1863 edition of her Chorale Book for England, making it accessible to English-speaking Lutherans.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 756
- Lutheran Service Book — 468
- Lutheran Worship — 145
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 196
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1610) penned this hymn during the Thirty Years' War, when death surrounded Lutheran congregations daily. Its confident refrain became a weapon of faith against despair—a living Word sung in darkness.
Preaching Connection
This hymn moves listeners from the law's demand (mortality and helplessness) to the gospel's triumph (Christ's living presence as the foundation of eternal contentment), making it a perfect response to any proclamation of resurrection or assurance.
Themes
Resurrection faith Comfort in Christ Eternal life Trust in God's promises Victory over death