Once He came in blessing

Today marks the 5th entry in the Advent-Hymn-of the-Day project.

This hymn, "Gottes Sohn ist kommen", was a favorite tune of J. S. Bach and others, as he composed many settings of it. What actually "suggested" it to me was the brightness of the melody joined with the colorful sounds of the nice Riddagshausen organ.

The tune was composed by Michael Weisse (d. 1534), and harmonized by Jack W. Burnam (b. 1946) the "Hymnal 1982" of the Episcopal church. That harmonization is freely adapted by me in this performance.

The text was authored by Jan Roh (c. 1485-1547), which was translated by Catherine Winkworth (1827-1878). Winkworth's translations are always beautifully done, but the "Hymnal 1982" indicates that the translation is altered (probably slightly) to make it more "modern" or "correct".

When I listened to the playback, I was surprised to see what a detached style I had used! However, this actually works very well as the fabulous acoustic just makes the sound go on, and on, and on... :-)

The tempo is relaxed with a strong, natural feel for the 2 to a bar phrasing. Hymns need not be fast to be joyful!

MUCH more variety to come over the next few weeks, so, stay tuned!

Once He came in blessing,
All our ills redressing;
Came in likeness lowly,
Son of God most holy;
Bore the Cross to save us,
Hope and freedom gave us.

Still He comes within us,
Still His voice would win us
From the sins that hurt us,
Would to Truth convert us;
Not in torment hold us,
But in love enfold us.

Thus, if thou canst name Him,
Not ashamed to claim Him,
But wilt trust Him boldly
Nor dost love Him coldly;
He will then recevie thee,
Heal thee, and forgive thee.

One who thus endureth
Bright reward secureth.
Come, then, O Lord Jesus,
From our sins release us;
Let us here confess Thee
Till in heaven we bless Thee.