On Christ's Ascension I Now Build
On Christ's ascension I now build
This hymn exemplifies Lutheran confidence in Christ's heavenly intercession as the believer's secure foundation, drawing on Hebrews 6:19-20's imagery of hope as an anchor. It reflects Grundtvig's emphasis on incarnational theology and the active, living Christ who sustains the Church from heaven.
History & Background
Originally written in Danish as 'Paa Christi Himmelfart jeg byggер min' by Grundtvig in 1844, reflecting his prolific hymn-writing during later life. Gracia Grindal's English translation was published in 1985 and has become standard in Lutheran hymnals, particularly LBW and LSB.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 519
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 159
- Lutheran Service Book — 492
- Lutheran Worship — 130
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 208
- With One Voice — 742
Translation
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christological anticipation (St. 1-2) → Incarnational paradox (St. 3) → Pneumatological reign (St. 4)
Themes
Christ's Ascension Hope and assurance Eternal intercession Foundation of faith