When Christmas Morn is Dawning
When Christmas morn is dawning
This hymn celebrates the theological reality of the Incarnation—God becoming human in Christ—emphasizing both the cosmic significance and personal joy of Christmas. It reflects Lutheran understanding of God's gracious condescension and redemptive love made tangible in the birth of Jesus.
History & Background
Heinrich Bone composed this hymn in 1847 as a German Christmas hymn originally titled 'Wenn der Christmorgen taget.' Charles Wharton Stork translated it into English in 1920, and it appeared in the Lutheran Book of Worship in 1978.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 59
Translation
Bulletin Note
Composed by Heinrich Bone in 1847, this hymn captures the Lutheran joy in God's gracious condescension—the infinite made finite, divinity cradled in human form for our redemption and peace.
Preaching Connection
This hymn proclaims the pure Gospel of the Incarnation: God's gratuitous self-giving in Christ as the ultimate expression of grace that requires nothing of us but faith and wonder.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Justification Augsburg Confession
Themes
Incarnation Christ's birth Joy and celebration God's love manifest Redemption