Here I am Lord

 The Divine Call

The Story Behind "Here I am Lord" by Dan Schutte

In the tapestry of hymns that grace our sacred spaces, few resonate as deeply as "Here I am Lord." Penned by Dan Schutte, this cherished hymn speaks to the soul with its profound message of surrender and service. But what inspired the creation of this timeless melody?

Dan Schutte, a renowned composer and member of the St. Louis Jesuits, drew inspiration from the prophetic words of Isaiah and Samuel. In Isaiah 6:8, the prophet hears the voice of the Lord asking, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" To which Isaiah responds, "Here am I; send me." Similarly, in 1 Samuel 3:4, the young Samuel hears the call of God in the night and responds, "Here I am."

These biblical passages, brimming with the theme of divine calling and human response, served as the foundation for Schutte's composition. He sought to capture the essence of surrendering to God's will, of being open and ready to heed the call to service, just as Isaiah and Samuel did.

"Here I am Lord" invites worshippers to reflect on their own willingness to answer God's call, to say "yes" to whatever path He may lead them on. Its gentle melody and stirring lyrics evoke a sense of humility and purpose, reminding us that we are all called to be instruments of God's love and grace in the world.

The hymn has become a staple in churches and prayer gatherings around the world, its simple yet profound message touching hearts and igniting spirits. Whether sung by a congregation in unison or as a personal prayer whispered in solitude, "Here I am Lord" continues to inspire and uplift all who encounter it.

As we sing these words, may we be reminded of the sacred invitation extended to each of us: to offer ourselves wholeheartedly to the service of God and others, trusting in His guidance and grace every step of the way. And may Dan Schutte's inspired composition serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come, echoing the eternal truth that when we say "Here I am," God is always there to meet us.