Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
Hebrews 13:8
Words: Tobias Clausnitzer, in the Altdorflisches Gesang-Buchlein, 1663, number 20 (Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier). Adapted by George R. Woodward, Songs of Syon, 1904.
Music: Liebster Jesu Johann R. Ahle, 1664 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good picture of Woodward or Ahle (head-and-shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Dearest Jesu, we are here,
At Thy call, Thy presence owning;
Pleading now in holy fear
That Thy sacrifice atoning;
Word incarnate, much in wonder
On this mystery deep we ponder.
Under forms of bread and wine
Simple hearts in faith adore Thee:
Born of Mary, Son divine,
Low we bow the knee before Thee
Opening heart alike and coffer,
Body, soul, to Thee we offer.
Jesu, strong to save—the same
Yesterday, today, for ever—
Make us fear and love Thy name,
Serving Thee with best endeavor;
In this life, O ne’er forsake us,
But to bliss hereafter take us.