Martin Luther (1483-1546) wrote the words and melody of “From Heav’n Above to Earth I Come.” The melody is sung in German, the original language, then in English as introduction to Johann Pachelbel’s arrangement for organ. Pachelbel placed the melody in the part for pedal, with long, sustained pitches. Stanza two of the text proclaims, “This little child of lowly birth shall be the joy of all the earth.” The delightful part for the hands expresses the joy and freedom that is ours as we accept God’s offer of grace and freedom.
