HYMN: In Babylon We Weep

This novel coronavirus has brought about strange circumstances for the Church. We are unable to gather together for worship in the manner in which we are accustomed. For many of us, if not most of us, that means we are also unable to receive the Lord’s Supper. As a pastor, I am devastated to be unable to serve the sacrament to the mast majority of my congregation members—especially to my shut-ins. I know my flock is hungering for the Sacrament, and while I have been able to serve a small number of them, most are staying in their homes. I know their hunger because I feel it too.

This reminded me of the Old Testament people of God in exile in Babylon. Psalm 137:1 says, “By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept when we remembered Zion.” This verse sparked an idea for a hymn text for those who are hungering for the Lord’s Table right now. It’s a simple text, but it doesn’t have to be complex. We hunger for the Supper. Until the Lord brings us back to the Table, we pray for His Word to sustain us.

As always, I appreciate all feedback.
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In Babylon We Weep

1. In Babylon we weep.
Your house is dark and still.
Our woe in exile, Lord, is deep,
Our grief, a bitter pill.

2. Your people stand apart,
Dispersed by earthly care.
The devil aims his fiery dart
Of doubt and deep despair.

3. We hunger to be fed
As You have bid us do:
To dine upon the living Bread
And sing Your praise anew.

4. Until that happy day
When saints may reunite,
Sustain us with Your holy Word
To guide us through this night.

5. And as our hunger grows,
As we desire the Feast,
Fill us with grace which ever flows
For greatest and for least.

6. We beg, O Christ: with haste
Let blood-bought mercy shine
Until the day we joy to taste
Of You in bread and wine.


(c) 2020 Alan Kornacki, Jr
S M (66 86)
SOUTHWELL (LSB 610)
Hunger for the Lord’s Supper