From the cross Thy wisdom shining Our Lord does things differently than we might expect or from what we experience in the world. He brings life from His death on the cross. Christians live differently than those of this world: “Glorious now, we press toward glory, And our lives our hopes confess.”
The ENTRANCE HYMN “Thy Strong Word” (578) was written for Concordia Seminary—St. Louis in 1954, based on the motto “The Light Comes From Above.” It was written by Martin H. Franzmann (1907-1976), who served as a professor at the seminary.
The PRELUDE is a partita on “Thy Strong Word” by John A. Behnke (b. 1953). He is professor of music emeritus from Concordia University—Mequon, Wisconsin, and director of music at Trinity—Milwaukee. Dr. Behnke was Kantor Schultz’s college organ professor.
A partita is a series of variations on a common theme, in this case, the hymn tune “Ebenezer.” The movements include:
- Theme– movement is played with light stops—strings and flutes;
- Pedal Solo– played with the feet only with full registration;
III. Bicinium (two parts in counterpoint);
- The Cross– melody in the pedal with a 4’ reed; light 8’ flute accompaniment on the great manual;
- Fanfare(omitted today)
- Fugue– theme phrase moves around in different voice parts with accompaniment with full organ registration.
What is the World to Me The HYMN OF THE DAY (730), is a abbreviated version of the original (see The Lutheran Hymnal 430). It is by Georg M. Pfefferkorn (1645-1732) based on the theme “Renunciation of the World” from 1 John 2.15-17.
The world looks for honor, wealth, and pleasure. But these things, are “frail and flighty.” The Christian’s true delight is Jesus: our peace, life, healthy, friend, love; indeed: “my all.”
