Here I Am, Lord

Theology & Meaning

Dan Schutte wrote Here I Am, Lord in 1981 for the Catholic tradition and it has traveled broadly across all Christian communities. The song is structured as a dialogue between God and the called — God asks 'Whom shall I send?' and the human responds 'Here I am, Lord.' The Isaiah 6:8 framework positions calling not as self-generated vocation but as divine initiative and human responsive obedience: it is always God who asks first. The description of those to whom the called one is sent — those in darkness, the poor and lame — grounds the commissioning in the specific shape of Christ's own mission in Luke 4:18.

Worship Leadership Tips

Here I Am, Lord is the standard congregational song for commissioning services — missionaries, pastors, ministry leaders, new members, graduates launching into new seasons. It is also appropriate for any service on calling, vocation, or the Great Commission. In Catholic and mainline contexts it has deep congregational familiarity; evangelical contexts may need a brief introduction. The song functions as a congregational response to the preaching of the gospel — having heard the call of God, the congregation replies in one voice.

Arrangement Tips

The song benefits from a majestic but not grandiose arrangement. Piano-driven with full band entering on the chorus is the standard approach. If you have a choir, the chorus harmonies are beautiful in four parts. The D major key sits well for both congregational singing and lead vocals. In a commissioning service, consider building the final chorus by inviting the entire congregation to stand and sing it together — the physical act of standing as they sing 'here I am' makes the declaration an embodied act of surrender.

Scripture References

• Isaiah 6:8
• 1 Samuel 3:10
• Matthew 28:19-20
• Romans 10:15