The Happy Christmas Comes Once More
The happy Christmas comes once more
The Happy Christmas Comes Once More is a hymn text by Martin Behm (1610) in L.M. (8.8.8.8) meter. Translated by Catherine Winkworth. Found in ELH 143, elw 281, lbw 40, lsb 381. Sung to MIT FREUDEN ZART.
The hymn celebrates the Incarnation as God's merciful response to human sin and need, emphasizing joy in redemption. It reflects Lutheran theology of salvation by grace through Christ's advent into human history.
History & Background
Martin Behm published this German Christmas hymn in 1610 as 'Das frohe Weihnachtsfest komt wider her.' Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her 1863 collection, becoming standard in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Hymnary — 143
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 281
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 40
- Lutheran Service Book — 381
- Lutheran Worship — 34
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 79
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1557–1622) wrote this hymn in 1610 as part of the flowering of Lutheran hymnody in early modern Germany, grounding Christmas joy in doctrine of incarnational grace rather than sentiment.
Preaching Connection
Behm's hymn embodies the Law-Gospel movement by naming human misery and darkness before announcing Christ's advent as the merciful answer—making it an ideal response to proclamation that moves from conviction of sin to celebration of grace.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Ascription of praise to God's sovereign power and love, followed by personal testimony of healing and sanctification, culminating in lifelong grateful service
Themes
Incarnation Joy in salvation Divine mercy Redemption through Christ