Strengthen for Service Lord the Hands
Strengthen for service, Lord, the hands
The hymn reflects Lutheran emphasis on the sacred calling of all believers in their daily work and vocations, affirming that Christian service extends beyond clergy to all the baptized. It embodies the Lutheran doctrine that God works through human hands and feet in the world, sanctifying ordinary labor as spiritual ministry.
History & Background
Written in 1978 by Jeffrey Rowthorn, an English Anglican priest and hymn writer, for the dedication of a new parish hall. The hymn was first published in contemporary hymnals and has become a standard text for services of dedication, commissioning, and emphasis on lay vocation in Lutheran and other Protestant traditions.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 497
- The Hymnal 1982 — 312
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 218
- Voices Together — 484
Bulletin Note
Written by Jeffrey Willet Rowthorn in 1978, this hymn recovers the Reformation's radical claim that all vocations are callings from God, not just ordained ministry—a hymn for our hands and hearts.
Preaching Connection
This hymn proclaims the Lutheran conviction that grace sanctifies all honest labor: the Law demands we serve with integrity; the Gospel assures Christ's risen power flows through our very hands and feet.
Themes
Christian service and vocation Hands and feet for ministry Dedication to God's work Lay ministry and discipleship