Lord Receive this Company
Lord receive this company
The hymn embodies trust in God's providential care and welcoming grace toward the assembled faithful. It reflects the Lutheran emphasis on God's receptive mercy toward His people gathered in worship.
History & Background
This hymn of uncertain authorship appears in Lutheran hymnals as a brief petition for God's reception and care. It was included in the Lutheran Book of Worship (1978) as hymn 255.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 255
Bulletin Note
An ancient petition hymn rooted in monastic tradition, sung at community gatherings and transitions. Its steady long-meter form reflects contemplative trust in God's receptive mercy toward the assembled faithful.
Preaching Connection
This hymn's petition for divine reception amplifies the Gospel's answer to our condition of need: we are accepted in Christ not by our works, but by the Father's gracious embrace.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christological ascent: Christ's exaltation and mediation (1-2) → human struggle and incomplete vision (3) → eschatological hope and perseverance (4)
Themes
God's protection Community worship Divine reception Trust in God