Here I Am, Lord

Theology & Meaning

A dramatic musical setting of Isaiah 6's commissioning scene — 'whom shall I send, and who will go for us? And I said, Here am I. Send me' — from Dan Schutte and the St. Louis Jesuits. The responsorial structure enacts the Isaiah dialogue: God speaks in the verses, the human responds in the chorus. Theologically the song captures the Isaianic theology of call: the divine initiative ('I who made the stars of night') precedes and invites the human response ('here I am, Lord'). This is not volunteering based on human confidence but responding to the divine call on the basis of who God is and what He has promised to do. This song's power lies in how it translates theological truth into congregational prayer. The imagery of Christ's work moves beyond abstract doctrine into lived experience—the weight of His love becomes tangible in the worship moment. For congregations wrestling with assurance, this song provides both intellectual grounding and emotional release, reminding them that their standing before God rests entirely on Christ's finished work, not their own fluctuating righteousness. In pastoral ministry, you'll find this song particularly effective during seasons of doubt or discouragement, when worshippers need to be anchored back to foundational gospel realities. It serves as a corrective to therapeutic religion while maintaining tenderness—acknowledging both the cosmic scope of what Christ accomplished and the intensely personal nature of His love for each believer. The song refuses false comfort but offers genuine hope, grounded in redemptive history.

Worship Leadership Tips

One of the most widely used commissioning and calling songs in the English-speaking church, crossing Catholic and Protestant traditions. Ideal for ordinations, missionary commissions, graduation services, or any call-to-service context. The antiphonal structure works beautifully with a cantor leading the verses and the congregation responding in the chorus. Pay careful attention to congregational familiarity. This song works most powerfully when people sing it from the heart rather than from paper. If your congregation is learning it, consider leading it across multiple weeks to allow it to settle into their memory. The pacing matters: rushing the tempo steals contemplative power. When positioned as a response to Scripture or sermon, let the word-music relationship speak without over-explanation. The song's theology is clear and will land differently in different hearts. Some worshippers need it for personal assurance; others need it to deepen understanding of Christ's work; still others sing it as thanksgiving for grace already experienced. Trust the song to do its work in the Spirit's hands.

Arrangement Tips

Traditional piano or organ in 3/4 with the classical Catholic CCM sound. The three-four waltz feel gives it a gentle, processional quality appropriate for the commissioning context. Full choir is the natural setting, though it works equally well in smaller configurations. The verses should be sung expressively by a soloist; the chorus needs full congregational voice. Consider what instruments enter and when. Start simply, add layers gradually, then strip back for intimate moments. This respects both the congregation's singing ability and the song's theological weight. For smaller churches, piano with cello gives support without overwhelming. In larger settings, be judicious with drums—a light brush can suggest the meter. Electric guitar should create harmonic interest rather than double the keyboard. Remember: support congregational singing and theological meditation.

Scripture References

• Isaiah 6:8
• Exodus 3:4
• 1 Samuel 3:10
• Romans 10:15
• Isaiah 49:1