487. Proper 17 (Series C)

The lessons for this Sunday (Aug. 28-Sept. 3) are Proverbs 25:2-10, Hebrews 13:1-17 and Luke 14:1-14. The tune is KOMMT HER, DES KÖNIGS AUFGEBOT by Heinrich Schütz (1661), which the SELK hymnal paired with a hymn beginning with the same words. This might be a deal-breaker for congregations that don't take well to learning new tunes, but then maybe it'll make a nice solo or choir piece and, after all, you can just read the text. But personally, I think learning this tune might be an exciting musical adventure. Except for one tiny rhythmic tweak in the alto line, the setting is also Schütz's.

Jesus, to You all laud is due,
For though You knew heav'nly fame,
You stooped below, mercy to show
And undergo death and shame.
Grant, Lord, that we like You may be,
Happy to see scant acclaim;
Freshen our nerve others to serve
And never swerve from the aim
To tend the flame of Your name.

After You bled, pierced in our stead,
Christ, from the dead You arose.
Seated on high, our cause You ply,
Toward us God's eye to dispose.
Fit us to share Your glory there,
Bidding us wear spotless clothes.
Soon draw us forth as heav'n and earth
Cry out in birth's dreadful throes,
Till life o'erthrows all our woes.