Your Little Ones Dear Lord Are We
Your little ones, dear Lord, are we
The hymn expresses the Lutheran understanding of baptism as God's covenant with and protection of children, connecting to the doctrine of infant baptism central to Lutheran practice. It emphasizes childlike trust and reliance on God's grace, reflecting Luther's catechetical emphasis on faith formation.
History & Background
Martin Luther wrote this hymn in 1524 as one of his German hymns promoting congregational singing during the Reformation. It was published in early Lutheran hymnals and became a standard catechetical hymn for teaching children about baptism and faith.
Hymnal Appearances
- Evangelical Lutheran Worship — 474
- The Hymnal 1982 — 271
- Lutheran Book of Worship — 52
- Lutheran Service Book — 566
- Lutheran Worship — 286
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 392
Translation
Bulletin Note
Written by Martin Luther in 1524, this hymn expresses the Lutheran doctrine of infant baptism—God's gracious covenant with children who cannot yet understand, only trust.
Preaching Connection
This hymn embodies Luther's catechetical vision: the Law humbles us to recognize our dependence as children, while the Gospel reveals God's tender protection and covenant faithfulness toward all the baptized.
Catechism & Confessional Connections
- Of Baptism Augsburg Confession
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
Baptism Childlike faith Grace and protection God's care Discipleship