In the Very Midst of Life
In the very midst of life
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran theology's emphasis on both law (confronting human mortality and sinfulness) and gospel (Christ's victory over death and assurance of resurrection). It demonstrates the Lutheran comfort tradition that acknowledges death's reality while proclaiming Christian hope grounded in Christ's redemption.
History & Background
Originally composed in German as 'Mitten wir im Leben sind' by Martin Behm in 1606, this funeral hymn reflects Lutheran medieval piety adapted for the Reformation era. Catherine Winkworth's 1869 English translation became the standard version in Lutheran hymnals, particularly TLH and LBW.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 619
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 350
- Lutheran Service Book — 755
- Lutheran Worship — 265
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 590
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Martin Behm in 1606, this Lutheran classic emerged from the suffering of the Thirty Years' War. It models the pastoral theology of comfort—acknowledging death's sting while anchoring hope firmly in Christ's resurrection and our baptismal identity.
Preaching Connection
This hymn enfolds the Law's stark confrontation with human mortality into the Gospel's proclamation that Christ alone is victor over death, making it a powerful liturgical response to preaching that moves from condemnation to absolution.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law (human mortality and peril) to Gospel (God's sole protection and mercy); reassurance of divine salvation amid earthly dangers
Themes
mortality and trust in Christ comfort in death resurrection hope dependence on God's grace