Hymn 89 (1940 Hymnal) “At the Lamb’s high feast we sing” Tune: SALZBURG (Melody by Jakob Hintze, 1678; harmonized by J. S. Bach. Latin; Tr. Robert Campbell, 1849)
This is another one of the glorious hymns of Easter with the lyrics rich in content of the Risen Christ being the true Paschal Lamb whose blood shedding redeems us from our sins and eternal death. I pray the hymn offers you much joy, encouragement and comfort during these trying times.
Although, it can be a challenge to memorize lines to hymns, the rewards are tremendous when we do so, especially when needing to silence the negative chatter of the world and our minds. We were created by God for praise, for glorifying Him! You will be surprised how favorably your heart, mind and soul respond to singing hymns of praise, such as this Sunday’s hymn offering. Enjoy! – Fr. Hines+
“…be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph. 5:18-20).
Lyrics to Hymn No. 89 (1940 Hymnal)
At the Lamb’s high feast we sing
praise to our victorious King,
who hath washed us in the tide
flowing from his pierced side;
praise we him, whose love divine
gives his sacred Blood for wine,
gives his Body for the feast,
Christ the victim, Christ the priest.
Where the Paschal blood is poured,
death’s dark angel sheathes his sword;
Israel’s hosts triumphant go
through the wave that drowns the foe.
Praise we Christ, whose blood was shed,
Paschal victim, Paschal bread;
with sincerity and love
eat we manna from above.
Mighty victim from the sky,
hell’s fierce powers beneath thee lie;
thou hast conquered in the fight,
thou hast brought us life and light:
now no more can death appall,
now no more the grave entrall;
thou hast opened paradise,
and in thee thy saints shall rise.
Easter triumph, Easter joy,
sin alone can this destroy;
from sin’s power do thou set free
souls newborn, O Lord, in thee.
Hymns of glory, songs of praise,
Father, unto thee we raise;
Risen Lord, all praise to thee,
With the Spirit ever be. Amen.