Words to the Hymn "Here I Am, Lord"
"Here I Am, Lord" is a powerful hymn frequently used in liturgical settings and personal devotion. Its evocative lyrics speak to a willingness to serve God, regardless of the challenges. While variations exist, the most common version utilizes the following words:
Verse 1:
Here I am, Lord, is your servant.
I come to do your will.
Here I am, Lord, is your servant.
I come to do your will.
Verse 2:
Send me, Lord, wherever you wish.
Send me, Lord, to whoever you please. Here I am, Lord, is your servant. I come to do your will.
Verse 3:
For the comfort of the suffering, For the courage of the weak, For the healing of the wounded, I will go where you lead. Here I am, Lord, is your servant. I come to do your will.
Verse 4 (Often included but not always):
I will be your hand to heal, Your voice to speak the truth, Your love to touch the world. Here I am, Lord, is your servant. I come to do your will.
Exploring the Meaning and Impact:
The simplicity and directness of the lyrics resonate deeply with many. The repeated phrase "Here I am, Lord" emphasizes complete surrender and availability to God's plan. The verses then expand on this surrender, expressing a desire to serve in various ways – from comforting the suffering to speaking the truth. This makes it a versatile hymn suitable for a range of services and contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA) about "Here I Am, Lord":
While a direct "People Also Ask" section for this specific hymn isn't consistently present across search engines, common questions surrounding the hymn often include:
Who wrote "Here I Am, Lord"?
The hymn's authorship is often attributed to Dan Schutte, an American composer and musician known for his contributions to Catholic liturgical music. He is widely acknowledged as the composer of the melody and arranger of the lyrical structure prevalent in most hymnals. The lyrics themselves, however, may have evolved and seen various adaptations over time.
What is the origin or inspiration behind the lyrics?
The lyrics likely draw inspiration from biblical passages emphasizing service and obedience to God. The phrase "Here I am, Lord," echoes the responses of prophets like Isaiah (Isaiah 6:8) and Samuel (1 Samuel 3:4) who answered God's call to serve. The specific lyrical themes reflect a dedication to serving others as an act of worship.
What are some common musical arrangements of "Here I Am, Lord"?
"Here I Am, Lord" enjoys a variety of musical arrangements, ranging from simple congregational settings to more elaborate choral arrangements with instrumental accompaniment. The melody itself is readily adaptable to different styles and musical contexts, reflecting its broad appeal. The precise musical arrangement often depends on the specific liturgical context or the preferences of the performing group.
Is there a specific story or event related to the creation of this hymn?
There isn't a widely known, documented narrative behind the specific creation of "Here I Am, Lord." However, Dan Schutte's extensive career in composing and arranging liturgical music suggests the hymn likely arose from his personal faith and experience in composing music for religious settings, drawing on both his musical gift and deeply held spiritual beliefs.
How can I use "Here I Am, Lord" in my personal worship?
The hymn's straightforward and heartfelt message makes it ideal for personal reflection and prayer. Simply singing or reading the lyrics can be a powerful act of devotion, prompting a commitment to serving God and others. Consider using the hymn as a focus for meditation, reflecting on your own willingness to answer God's call.
By understanding the words, origin, and various interpretations of "Here I Am, Lord," we can better appreciate its enduring power and relevance in both communal and personal worship.
