This Night a Wondrous Revelation
This night a wondrous revelation
The hymn celebrates the Incarnation as the supreme revelation of God's grace and mercy toward fallen humanity, emphasizing Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy regarding the Dayspring from on high. Lutheran theology recognizes this text's proclamation of the Gospel's central mystery: God becoming human for human salvation.
History & Background
Martin Behm composed this German Christmas hymn in the early 17th century as part of the Lutheran hymnodic tradition. The hymn was first published in German hymnals and later translated into English by George A. T. Ryberg in 1941 for inclusion in The Lutheran Hymnal.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 27
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 88
Translation
Bulletin Note
Martin Behm (1610) penned this Incarnation hymn grounded in Old Testament prophecy, particularly the Benedictus's 'Dayspring from on high.' A treasury of Lutheran Christmas proclamation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes the Law-Gospel movement by moving listeners from humanity's desperate need in darkness to the triumphant proclamation of Christ as fulfillment of every Old Testament longing.
Themes
Incarnation Divine visitation Light of Christ Salvation history