“I, the Lord of sea and sky…” These opening words begin a piece of liturgical music that has become both remarkably popular and surprisingly controversial: Dan Schutte’s “Here I Am, Lord.” This Song Here I Am Lord, as it is known by many, consistently ranks high in surveys of favorite hymns among Catholics and various Christian denominations. Yet, alongside its widespread adoration, it also faces strong criticism. Why does this particular hymn evoke such a passionate spectrum of reactions?
A Song of Contradictions: Love it or Hate it?
The responses to “Here I Am, Lord” are far from lukewarm. An informal survey conducted among readers revealed a striking divide in opinions. Some find deep meaning and comfort in its verses. One admirer, Pamela Yap, described it as her “favorite hymn,” emphasizing the lyrics’ message of divine calling and unwavering trust in God through life’s journey. Another devotee, Anthony Nuccio, praised its personal resonance in worship and reflection settings. Candace Koons highlighted its power to rekindle faith when feeling complacent.
However, not everyone shares this enthusiasm. Critics express strong aversion to the hymn. Some find issue with singing from God’s perspective, particularly the opening line. Others, like J C🎃rley, would “pay big $” to never hear it again at Mass, highlighting a sentiment of overexposure and dislike. Even those with fond memories, like John Kelemen, who associates the song with his RCIA experience, jokingly refer to it as the “liturgical equivalent of junk food,” suggesting a perception of superficiality despite its appeal. This dichotomy in reception underscores the divisive nature of this seemingly simple song here i am lord.
It’s my favourite hymn. I feel the lyrics are about being called by God and trusting him to walk with you through everything.
— Pamela Yap (@Pamela_Yap) September 12, 2017
The Genesis of “Here I Am, Lord”: A Song Born from Flu and Faith
Despite its now-iconic status, composer Dan Schutte never anticipated the phenomenal reach of “Here I Am, Lord.” In 1979, a 31-year-old Jesuit theology student in Berkeley, California, Schutte received a last-minute request from a friend. He was asked to compose a song here i am lord for an upcoming diaconate ordination Mass, with only a few days to spare.
Facing a tight deadline and battling the flu, Schutte felt the pressure. His friend requested the inclusion of specific images: the word of God, the light of Christ, and the bread and wine. Staring at a blank staff paper, guitar in hand, Schutte prayed for divine assistance. Drawing inspiration from Scripture, particularly the stories of prophets like Jeremiah, who voiced their inadequacy when called by God, Schutte found a thematic direction. These biblical narratives of prophets grappling with their calling became the bedrock for the hymn’s message.
From Self-Doubt to Universal Resonance: The Evolution of the Lyrics
Initially, Schutte considered lyrics expressing confidence: “Here I am, Lord; here I stand, Lord.” However, influenced by the spirit of the St. Louis Jesuits, a group known for their folk-infused liturgical music, and reflecting on the prophetic narratives, he opted for a more questioning and humble tone. This led to the pivotal change to “Here I am, Lord; is it I, Lord?” This subtle shift captured the essence of human vulnerability and doubt in the face of divine calling, resonating deeply with many listeners. This questioning humility within the song here i am lord is arguably key to its widespread connection.
Schutte sketched the song here i am lord over two days, finalizing edits on his walk to deliver it. He admitted to feeling uncertain about its quality at the time. However, the song’s reception at the diaconate ordination was surprisingly positive, marking the beginning of its unexpected journey into the hearts of congregations worldwide.
Love. Sang it at my first Mass. “Calling in the night” resonates with my many yrs struggling with the “priesthood or nah?” question/mystery.
— Stuart Wilson-Smith (@swilsonsmith) September 13, 2017
An Unexpected Anthem: The Enduring Legacy and Impact
Since its premiere and 1981 publication, “Here I Am, Lord” has enjoyed consistent positive reception. Schutte has amassed letters from individuals detailing the song here i am lord‘s profound impact on their lives. One poignant letter came from an army captain in Afghanistan, who described troops gathering for Mass near combat zones, finding solace and unity in singing “Here I Am, Lord.” The hymn, familiar from their childhoods, offered a sense of connection and faith amidst fear and uncertainty.
Letters also arrived from those facing terminal illness, or their loved ones. They shared how the song here i am lord provided strength and hope, framing their difficult journeys as a walk with God. For Schutte, these personal testimonies are humbling, a testament to something “way, way far beyond what I can do,” acknowledging a divine hand in the song’s enduring resonance and its ability to accompany people through significant life moments.
Conclusion
Whether embraced wholeheartedly or met with disdain, “Here I Am, Lord” undeniably holds a significant place in modern liturgical music. This song here i am lord, born from a humble request and composed amidst personal challenges, has touched countless lives, offering a soundtrack to moments of vocation, struggle, and faith. Its enduring appeal lies perhaps in its simple yet profound expression of human response to a divine call – a call that continues to resonate across diverse congregations and personal spiritual journeys.
