Lord Jesus Christ, Be Present Now
Lord Jesus Christ, be present now
This hymn embodies Luther's emphasis on Christ's real presence and the Holy Spirit's illumination in worship and Christian life. It reflects the Lutheran understanding of divine grace actively working through Word and Spirit to enlighten believers.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this hymn in German as "Herr Jesu Christ, dich zu uns wend" in the early 17th century. Carl Doving's English translation appeared in 1912 and has become standard in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 527
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 253
- Lutheran Service Book — 902
- Lift Up Your Hearts — 532
- Lutheran Worship — 201
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 3
- Voices Together — 25
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed in 1610 by Martin Behm, this hymn expresses Luther's conviction that Christ is truly present in worship, actively enlightening believers through the Holy Spirit's work with the preached Word.
Preaching Connection
This hymn amplifies the Gospel's comfort by moving from the Law's exposure of our spiritual blindness to Christ's promise of present, active illumination through Word and Spirit.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Lord’s Supper Augsburg Confession
Themes
Christ's presence Divine light and guidance Prayer for illumination Devotion and worship