Where Wilt Thou Go Since Night Draws Near
Where wilt thou go since night draws near
The hymn explores the theme of Christ's passion through the lens of the Emmaus disciples, emphasizing the comfort of Christ's abiding presence with believers. It reflects Lutheran theology of law and gospel, moving from human need (night drawing near) to the consolation found in Christ's fellowship.
History & Background
Originally composed in German by Nicolai Selnecker in the late 16th century as part of passion hymnody during the Lutheran Reformation. The text reflects on the Emmaus narrative and appears in various English translations in Lutheran hymnals from the 19th century onward.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 374
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 197
Translation
Bulletin Note
Nicolai Selnecker's 1572 hymn reflects the Emmaus narrative, grounding Lutheran theology of Christ's real presence in the comfort of his fellowship with anxious believers during Lent and beyond.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the law-gospel movement: from spiritual homelessness and the gathering darkness of sin, to the gospel's astonishing answer—Christ himself as our companion and host at the table of grace.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Christological meditation moving from Christ's suffering, to personal appropriation of redemption, to grateful response, to covenantal commitment
Themes
Christ's passion Evening prayer Discipleship Emmaus disciples Trust in Christ