Twas in the Moon of Wintertime
Twas in the moon of wintertime when all the birds had fled
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran sacramental theology by depicting Christ's humble entry into creation through vivid natural imagery. It emphasizes the paradox of divine majesty becoming vulnerable in human form, central to Lutheran Christology.
History & Background
Middendorf composed this carol as a poetic meditation on the Incarnation using winter imagery. It was published in 1926 and has become a beloved addition to Lutheran Christmas worship.
Hymnal Appearances
- Chalice Hymnal — 165
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 284
- Glory to God — 142
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 72
- Lutheran Worship — 40
- New Century Hymnal — 152
- Voices Together — 237
Bulletin Note
Jesse Edgar Middendorf's 1926 hymn reflects Lutheran sacramental theology through winter imagery, portraying the Incarnation as divine tenderness entering creation's vulnerability—grace meeting human unworthiness.
Preaching Connection
This hymn deepens proclamation of the Incarnation by showing how divine majesty paradoxically enters human weakness, transforming the Law's condemnation into Gospel mercy through Christ's humble, sacramental presence.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: From contemplation of Christ's humble birth in obscurity to personal invitation for Christ's transformative indwelling; movement from historical event to soteriological application
Themes
Incarnation God's love for creation Nativity imagery Divine providence Tender compassion