This Is the Feast
This is the feast of victory for our God
'This Is the Feast' makes explicit the Apocalyptic sacramental theology that underlies Lutheran eucharistic understanding: the local celebration of Holy Communion is a participation in the heavenly banquet of Revelation 19:9 — 'Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.' The phrase 'the Lamb who was slain has begun his reign' holds together cross and resurrection, past sacrifice and present kingdom — precisely the Lutheran eucharistic theology that insists the Sacrament proclaims the Lord's death until he comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). The Alleluia refrain belongs to Easter but the text's theology applies to every celebration of the Supper.
History & Background
'This Is the Feast' is the canticle text written by John Arthur (b.1945) in 1978 for the Lutheran Book of Worship, based on Revelation 5:12-13 and 19:9. It was composed as a canticle for use after the words of institution in Holy Communion and as a festal alternative to the Agnus Dei. Richard Hillert provided the tune setting that gave it its characteristic character. The text draws directly on the language of Revelation's heavenly liturgy — worthy is the Lamb, power and riches and wisdom and strength — and applies that celestial acclamation to the congregational Eucharist, understanding each celebration of Holy Communion as a participation in the eternal feast of the Lamb. The canticle was included in both LBW and ELW and has become a standard element of Lutheran Eucharistic liturgy, particularly during Easter season when the 'Alleluia' refrain is most fully expressed.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 167
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 151
Bulletin Note
Text by John Arthur (b.1945), 1978. Written for the Lutheran Book of Worship (1978). Based on Revelation 5:12-13 and 19:9. ELW 167.
Preaching Connection
'The Lamb who was slain has begun his reign' — the feast of the Supper is not a commemoration of a defeat but a celebration of a victory, which is why it is sung with Alleluias.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- The Definition & Command of Communion Small Catechism — Holy Communion
Themes
Eucharist feast Revelation Lamb Easter Alleluia heavenly liturgy resurrection eschatology