With the Lord Begin Your Task
With the Lord begin your task
The hymn exemplifies Lutheran theology of vocation, teaching that all work performed in faith is worship and service to God. It reflects the Reformation principle that secular labor sanctified by prayer and faith participates in God's redeeming work.
History & Background
Written by Swedish pastor Laurentius Laurenti in early 18th century and published in Swedish hymnals. Catherine Winkworth's English translation appeared in her Chorale Book for England (1863), becoming standard in Lutheran hymnody.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 862
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 444
- Lutheran Service Book — 869
- Lutheran Worship — 483
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 540
- Voices Together — 840
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Swedish pastor Laurentius Laurenti in 1700, this hymn anchors the Reformation's teaching that all honest work performed in faith is worship—no labor is secular when done in trust in the Lord.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies the Lutheran doctrine of vocation: the Law demands we glorify God in all we do, while the Gospel assures us that Christ's grace sustains and sanctifies even our struggling, imperfect work.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Ascription of praise to God's sovereign power and love, followed by personal testimony of healing and sanctification, culminating in lifelong grateful service
Themes
Trust in God's Providence Sanctification of Daily Labor Beginning Work with Prayer God's Presence in All Tasks