O Lord We Praise You Bless You and Adore You
O Lord we praise you, bless you, and adore you
This hymn expresses classic Lutheran eucharistic theology, emphasizing Christ's real presence and the grateful response of the believing community. It reflects the sacramental piety central to Lutheran practice and the paradox of mystery received in faith.
History & Background
Martin Behm wrote this German hymn in the early 17th century as an expression of sacramental devotion. It has appeared in Lutheran hymnals since the Reformation and was translated into English by Hugh Benham in 1974 for modern Lutheran worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 403
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 215
- Lutheran Service Book — 617
- Lutheran Worship — 238
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 313
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1557–1622) crafted this eucharistic hymn in 1610, embedding Lutheran sacramental theology in verse: Christ's real presence received in faith, not reason; mystery met with adoration, not explanation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the paradox at the heart of Gospel proclamation: we cannot grasp the mystery of Christ's presence, yet faith receives it completely, transforming acknowledgment of our unworthiness into unbounded joy.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Communion Small Catechism — Holy Communion
- Of Lord’s Supper Augsburg Confession
Themes
Eucharistic thanksgiving Adoration of Christ Gratitude Sacramental faith Praise