Lock

Hymn Summary: Trinity

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Come, Holy Ghost, Creator Blest (LSB 498/499)

Feast of Holy Trinity (both 1 year and 3 year series)

The author of this text, Rabanus Maurus (776-856), was a Benedictine monk who was called to be the Archbishop of Mainz. His hymn to the Holy Spirit teaches the work and comfort of the Holy Spirit. As each Christian is a temple of the LORD, so we sing and pray that the Holy Spirit would continue to dwell in us. The Spirit upholds us by his sevenfold gifts so that saints would behold God through his word. Though saints on earth often are weak, the Spirit comes to uphold and strengthen all in faith.
Many do not realize that Maurus’s hymn is the hymn of above all hymns to be used at the call, ordination, and installation of pastors.
Two tunes are provided, Veni Creator Spiritus—a simplification of the original chant—and Komm, Gott Schöpfer—a further simplification of the original chant. Both tunes are in the same key. Thus, it is appropriate to alternate singing between congregation (Komm, Gott Schöpfer) and choir/soloist (Veni Creator Spiritus).

Rev. Thomas E. Lock serves as Kantor/Assistant Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church, Denver, Colorado. ​


Hymn Summary: Lent 3

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Lord of Our Life and God of Our Salvation – LSB 659

Lent 3/Oculi (1 year) AND Proper 7 (A) (3 year)

Jesus Christ, the Lord who has the words of eternal life (John 6:68). Christ is the one who defeats Satan, the accuser, and helps his saints (Revelation 12:10). Though they are surrounded by foes with unfurled banners, yet the Lord’s banner of love waves over his Church (Song of Solomon 2:4) and preserves her. Though darkness surrounds the believers, his light of the gospel shines through the darkness. Though the Church is assaulted by devils, still the Lord’s armor (Ephesians 6) defends her. This hymn is unusual in that the second stanza of the text is sturdy and loud; the text then tapers off from billows to prayers for peace. He brings his peace to our hearts, to the Church, to the world, and to the fullness of heaven.

Rev. Thomas E. Lock serves as Kantor/Assistant Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church, Denver, Colorado.