The Lutheran Hymnal ‎#271

271. Word Supreme, Before Creation

1 Word Supreme, before creation
Born of God eternally,
Who didst will for our salvation
To be born on earth and die,
Well Thy saints have kept their station,
Watching till Thine hour drew nigh.

2 Now ’tis come, and faith espies Thee;
Like an eaglet in the morn
One in steadfast worship eyes Thee;
Thy beloved, Thy latest born.
In Thy glory he descries Thee
Reigning from the Tree of scorn.

3 Much he asked in loving wonder,
On Thy bosom leaning, Lord.
In the secret place of thunder
Answer kind didst Thou accord,
Wisdom for Thy church to ponder
Till the day of dread award.

4 Lo, heav'ns doors lift up, revealing
How Thy judgments earthward move;
Scrolls unfolded, trumpets pealing,
Wine cups from the wrath above;
Yet o’er all a soft voice stealing,
"Little children, trust and love."

5 Thee, th'almighty King eternal,
Father of th'eternal Word,
Thee, the Father’s Word supernal,
Thee, of both the Breath adored,
Heaven and earth and realms infernal
Own one glorious God and Lord.

Amen.

Text Information

• First Line: Word Supreme, before creation
• Title: Word Supreme, Before Creation
• Author: John Keble (1856, cento)
• Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1941
• Scripture:
  John 21:20
• Topic: The Church Year: St. John the Apostle

Tune Information

• Name: SIEH, HIER BIN ICH
• Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7.
• Key: b minor
• Source: "Geistreiches Gesangbuch," Darmstadt, 1698