Here I Am, Lord (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 574)
1 “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?”
Refrain
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.
2 “I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people’s pain.
I have wept for love 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?”
Refrain
3 “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?”
Refrain
Text: Daniel L. Schutte; Music: Daniel L. Schutte
© 1981 OCP Publications, Inc.
Reprinted under OneLicense.net #A730924
Devotion
This hymn was an unforgettable part of my Luther Seminary commencement service, underscored by the rich music of the pipe organ and the soaring voices of the large congregation. The melody, the lyrics, and God’s pressing question—“I have heard my people cry. Whom shall I send?” (Isaiah 6:8)—continue to echo in my memory year after year.
The Exodus story begins with the cries of slaves and babies, emphasizing the God who listens to the cries of the least considered and the most vulnerable. Isaiah reminds us that this God not only hears those cries but also asks, “Whom shall I send?”
This question invites us to join in discerning and encouraging those whom God has prepared for such a time as this. Whom is God calling to respond to the cries of our least considered and most vulnerable neighbors?
Prayer
O Lord, help us to love singing this question and living it out as your primary responders. Amen.