Lord, Open Now My Heart to Hear
Lord, open now my heart to hear
This hymn reflects Lutheran emphasis on the transformative power of God's Word and the role of the Holy Spirit in opening hearts to receive biblical truth. It embodies the Reformation principle of Scripture as the foundation for faith and spiritual growth.
History & Background
Originally composed in Swedish as 'Öppna nu min hjerta, Herre' by Laurentius Laurenti, a prominent Swedish Lutheran pastor and hymn writer. The text was translated into English by Martin H. Behm in 1929 and first appeared in The Lutheran Hymnal (1941).
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 249
- Lutheran Service Book — 908
- Lutheran Worship — 197
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 5
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Swedish Lutheran Laurentius Laurenti in 1700, this hymn embodies the Reformation conviction that Scripture itself—not merely human wisdom—is the living means by which God transforms believers through the Holy Spirit.
Preaching Connection
This hymn dramatizes the Law's exposure of our spiritual deadness and the Gospel's promise that God's Word has the power to open, enliven, and transform hearts sealed by sin.
Themes
Word of God Faith and obedience Spiritual readiness Prayer for grace