Time Out, Episode 146

Text: Luke 1:1-56
Hymn: 333, Once He Came in Blessing
Kretzmann Commentary: Luke 1:1-56
Bonus Bumper: Bach, Magnificat

The first chapter of Luke is so long that it needed to be broken up into two episodes. We will conclude Luke 1 next week.

“Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” Contrast this with Zechariah’s doubt. The Word of the Lord gives life; it can be trusted, even when we don’t see how. Let His salvation be done to us as God has commanded.

333 is one of my favorite Advent hymns, and the tune is very versatile: it almost asks to be played by a symphony with some trumpet overtones. I also like the reference to the Lord’s Supper in verse 2: “With Himself He feeds us.” Brilliant.

Setting from Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House. Used by permission.

Once He Came in Blessing

1. Once He came in blessing,
   All our sins redressing;
   Came in likeness lowly,
   Son of God most holy;
   Bore the cross to save us;
   Hope and freedom gave us.
2. Now He gently leads us;
   With Himself He feeds us
   Precious food from heaven,
   Pledge of peace here given,
   Manna that will nourish
   Souls that they may flourish.
3. Soon will come that hour
   When with mighty power
   Christ will come in splendor
   And will judgment render,
   With the faithful sharing
   Joy beyond comparing.
4. Come, then, O Lord Jesus,
   From our sins release us.
   Keep our hearts believing,
   That we, grace receiving,
   Ever may confess You
   Till in heav’n we bless You.