The Lutheran Hymnary ‎#407

407. Brethren, called by one vocation

1 Brethren, called by one vocation,
Members of one family,
Heirs through Christ of one salvation,
Let us live in harmony;
Nor by strife embitter life,
Journeying to eternity.

2 In a land where all are strangers,
And our sojourning so short,
In the midst of common dangers,
Concord is our best support;
Heart with heart divides the smart,
Lightens grief of every sort.

3 Let us shun all vain contention
Touching words and outward things,
Whence alas! so much dissension
And such bitter rancor springs;
Troubles cease, where Christ brings peace
And sweet healing of His wings.

4 Judge not hastily of others,
But thine own salvation ind;
Nor be captious to thy brother's,
To thine won offenses blind;
God alone discerns thine own,
And the hearts of all mankind.

5 Let it be our chief endeavor,
That we may the Lord obey,
Then shall envy ease forever,
And all hate be done away;
Free from strife shall be his life
Who serves God both night and day!

Text Information

• First Line: Brethren, called by one vocation
• Author: C.J.P. Spitta (1833)
• Meter: 8, 7, 8, 7, 7, 7.
• Publication Date: 1913
• Topic: The Church Year: Fourth Sunday after Trinity; Brotherly Love; Communion of Saints

Tune Information

• Name: [Brethren, called by one vocation]
• Composer: J. Chr. Bach (1693)
• Meter: 8, 7, 8, 7, 7, 7.
• Key: F Major