A Concord Pastor Comments: Is this one of your favorites, too?

1/12/15

Is this one of your favorites, too?

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You'll be hearing the well known and much loved song Here I Am, Lord in many churches this coming weekend. The first of this Sunday's readings that will prompt music directors to program this selection even though the source of its lyrics are actually found in Isaiah 6. Not to worry: composer Dan Schutte's Here I Am, Lord will serve us well nonetheless.

For your reflection and prayer, here's what I consider the finest arrangement of this song, by Ovid Young, sung by the St. Olaf Choir.

Listen, and see if you agree...

I, the Lord of sea and sky,
I have heard my people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin,
My hand will save.
I who made the stars of night,
I will make their darkness bright.
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?

Here I am Lord
Is it I Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night.
I will go Lord, if you lead me.
I will hold your people in my heart.

I, the Lord of snow and rain,
I have born my people's pain.
I have wept for love of them,
They turn away.
I will break their hearts of stone,
Give them hearts for love alone.
I will speak my word to them,
Whom shall I send?

I, the Lord of wind and flame,
I will tend the poor and lame.
I will set a feast for them,
My hand will save.
Finest bread I will provide,
Till their hearts be satisfied.
I will give my life to them,
Whom shall I send?

Here I am Lord
Is it I Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night.
I will go Lord, if you lead me.
I will hold your people in my heart.