O Lord How Shall I Meet Thee
O Lord, how shall I meet Thee
The hymn emphasizes proper preparation for encountering Christ through repentance, personal examination, and renewed faith—central to Lutheran Advent theology. It reflects the eschatological hope and Christocentric focus of Lutheran worship, calling believers to readiness for both Christ's historical coming at Bethlehem and His future return in judgment.
History & Background
Originally written as "Wie soll ich dich empfangen" by Paul Gerhardt in 1653 for Advent, it became one of the most beloved German Advent hymns. John Wesley's English translation first appeared in 1737 and has been widely used in Protestant hymnals since the 19th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 263
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 23
- Lutheran Service Book — 334
- Lutheran Worship — 19
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 58
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Paul Gerhardt in 1653 during religious upheaval, this Advent hymn has shaped Lutheran preparation for centuries. Its tune, *Macht hoch die Tür*, reflects medieval splendor—gates flung wide for the King.
Preaching Connection
This hymn develops the Law-Gospel movement perfectly: its call to repentance and self-examination intensifies the hearer's awareness of need, then pivots to the comfort and promise of Christ's merciful advent, making visible the movement from conviction to consolation.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law (preparation/opening hearts) → Gospel (Christ's sovereign arrival) → Eschatological transformation (peace and redemption) → Call to welcome and praise
Themes
Christ's coming preparation and readiness repentance faith and hope joyful expectation