This weekend we are studying a hymn by Lutheran Pastor, Johnann Mentzer. Like Gerhardt whom we studied last week, Mentzer lived about 100 years after Luther and in a very difficult time, politically and religiously. Like Gerhardt, Mentzer was also familiar with suffering and tragedy. Yet, his faith in the Triune God and the joy which God's work for him instilled, shines through in his hymns. This hymn is no exception. Originally it included 15 stanzas, ten of which are included in our hymnal, but in two different hymns (TLH 30 and 243).  

This hymn of praise is addressed to the Triune God (this is why it is found in the Trinity section of our hymnal), which can be seen in the reference to the Father (verse 2), the Savior Jesus (verse 3), and the Holy Spirit (verse 5). The words of this hymn are based in part on Jesus' words to the demonic, Legion after He delivered the man from the oppression of those evil spirits: “Return to your own house, and tell what great things God has done for you.” Then we hear the man's joyful response: "And he went his way and proclaimed throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him" (Luke 8:39). 

This hymn highlights the blessings which God has richly bestowed on us. He is our Creator and Preserver who is our "Guardian kind and tender." He is our Redeemer whose compassion led Him to come "down to ransom me" and "brought me from bondage" though the suffering (keenest woe) He endured on our behalf. He is our Sanctifier, Who gives "me among Thy saints a place" through the faith He works in our hearts, and gives us the power to live lives of good works to His glory. 

All of this moves the Christian, the one who has come to know God's love which is shown in all these ways, to "be filled with gladness" even in the face of trouble and trial in this life. 

Join us this weekend as we sing our praises to the Triune God for all the great things He has done for me!

May the LORD bless your joyful worship this weekend!