I am so Glad When Christmas Comes
I am so glad when Christmas comes
The hymn expresses the Lutheran understanding of Christmas as the celebration of God's redemptive grace made manifest in the Incarnation, emphasizing both the historical birth narrative and its soteriological significance. This reflects the Lutheran synthesis of doctrinal content with devotional joy, presenting the Nativity as the central event of Christian salvation history.
History & Background
Written by American hymnist Marie Winslow in 1909, this hymn reflects early 20th-century American Sunday school hymnody with its joyful simplicity and direct theological expression. It was published in various Lutheran hymnals beginning with the 1917 Lutheran Hymnal and has remained a popular Christmas hymn in Lutheran worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 292
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 69
- Lutheran Worship — 56
Bulletin Note
Written by Marie Winslow in 1909, this hymn unites doctrinal precision with devotional warmth—hallmarks of Lutheran hymnody. Its 7.6.7.6 D meter and tune CHRISTMAS JOY make it accessible for congregational singing across seasons.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Law-Gospel movement: our gladness at Christ's coming presupposes our need for a Savior, and the birth of Jesus announces both the severity of our condition and the immensity of God's reconciling love.
Themes
Incarnation Joy in salvation Christ's birth Redemption Divine love