493
Dearest Jesus, We Are Here
1. Dearest Jesus, we are here,
Gladly Your command obeying.
With this child we now draw near
In response to Your own saying
That to You it shall be given
As a child and heir of heaven.
2. Your command is clear and plain,
And we would obey it duly:
"You must all be born again,
Heart and life renewing truly,
Born of water and the Spirit,
And my kingdom thus inherit."
3. This is why we come to You,
In our arms this infant bearing;
Lord, to us Your glory show;
Let this child, Your mercy sharing,
In Your arms be shielded ever,
Yours on earth and Yours forever.
4. Gracious Lord, Your member own;
Shepherd, take Your lamb and feed it;
Prince of Peace, make here Your throne;
Way of life, to heaven lead it;
Precious vine, let nothing sever
From Your side this branch forever.
WORDS: Benjamin Schmolck, 1704
MUSIC: Trans. Catherine Winkworth, 1858; alt. Johann Rudolph Ahle, 1664 Harm. Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750); alt.
Scripture: John 3:5
Theme: Sacraments and Ordinances