In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
John 1:1–2
Words: Verses 1–3, Tobias Clausnitzer, in Altdorffisches Gesang-Büchlein, 1663 (Liebster Jesu wir sind hier). Translated from German to English by Catherine Winkworth, Lyra Germanica, 1858. Verse 4, unknown author.
Music: Liebster Jesu Johann R. Ahle, 1664 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good picture of Ahle (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Blessèd Jesus, at Thy Word
We are gathered all to hear Thee;
Let our hearts and souls be stirred
Now to seek and love and fear Thee,
By Thy teachings sweet and holy,
Drawn from earth to love Thee solely.
All our knowledge, sense and sight
Lie in deepest darkness shrouded,
Til Thy Spirit breaks our night
With the beams of truth unclouded.
Thou alone to God canst win us;
Thou must work all good within us.
Glorious Lord, Thyself impart!
Light of light, from God proceeding,
Open Thou our ears and heart;
Help us by Thy Spirit’s pleading;
Hear the cry Thy people raises;
Hear and bless our prayers and praises.
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,
Praise to Thee and adoration!
Grant that we Thy Word may trust
And obtain true consolation
While we here below must wander,
Till we sing Thy praises yonder.