With Broken Heart and Contrite Sigh
With broken heart and contrite sigh
The hymn embodies Lutheran penitential theology, emphasizing genuine contrition and trust in God's gracious forgiveness rather than works-righteousness or external penances. It reflects the Reformation insight that true repentance involves a broken spirit acknowledging unworthiness before God's mercy.
History & Background
Originally composed in German as 'Mit Bußem Herzen und Reue' by Johann Heermann during the Thirty Years' War, published in his hymnal Devoti Musica Cordis in 1630. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her Lyra Germanica (1858) and became standard in Lutheran hymnals.
Hymnal Appearances
- Lutheran Worship — 297
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 323
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Johann Heermann during the Thirty Years' War, this hymn teaches Reformed penitential theology: true repentance trusts God's grace alone, rejecting works-righteousness. A cornerstone of Lutheran devotion.
Preaching Connection
This hymn crystallizes Lutheran Law-Gospel preaching by showing that genuine contrition is not a work we offer God but a gift the Spirit works in us—making it the proper response to both the Law's accusation and the Gospel's absolution.
Themes
Repentance Contrition God's mercy Forgiveness Justification