O Lord of Heaven and Earth and Sea
O Lord of heaven and earth and sea
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran teaching on gratitude and Christian stewardship, emphasizing that all earthly goods are gifts from God to be used for His glory and the neighbor's good. It reflects the theology of creation care and proper use of material blessings within the doctrine of vocation.
History & Background
Written by Christopher Wordsworth in 1862 and published in his Holy Year; or, Hymns for Sundays and Holidays throughout the Year. The hymn became widely popular in Anglican and Lutheran hymnals from the late 19th century onward.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 442
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 408
- Lutheran Service Book — 781
- Lutheran Worship — 404
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 443
Bulletin Note
Written by Christopher Wordsworth (1807–1885), the nephew and poetic heir of William Wordsworth, this stewardship hymn appeared in 1862. It became central to Lutheran teaching on vocation and proper use of material creation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn transforms the doctrine of creation into a call for grateful stewardship, holding together divine generosity (Gospel) and our responsibility to use earthly goods for God's glory and the neighbor's good (sanctified life under the Law).
Themes
Stewardship of creation Gratitude for God's provision Christian giving and service God's sovereignty over all