We gather together to ask the Lord's blessing

This is a late arriving and very modest contribution to observe Thanksgiving Day. I'm not sure, but I certain that I've already uploaded this hymn years ago.

Since I was young, we always associated this text with the holiday of Thanksgiving, although I think the song is probably more about faith in God, and the pursuit of freedom and independence. At any rate, it is a fine joining of words and tune.

Years ago, I recall seeing a Dutch organist playing this for a television special. The instrument was a grand baroque organ, and I was absolutely amazed to see the keys moving together on all manuals - because of the couplers! ;-) It made a profound impression upon me.

The melody is found in Adrianus Valerius' "Nederlandtsch Gedenckclanck," dating from 1626.

The words are by an unknown author, but this fine translation is by Theodore Baker (1851-1934).

I attempted to play this in a straight-forward "Dutch manner," but I hope my Dutch listeners will forgive me if I got it wrong! :-)

I wish you all thankful and peaceful hearts. May you be blessed in your lives.

We gather together to ask the Lord's blessing;
He chastens and hastens His will to make known;
the wicked oppressing now cease from distressing.
Sing praises to His name, He forgets not His own.

Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,
ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine;
so from the beginning the fight we were winning:
the Lord was at our side - the glory be Thine!

We all do extol Thee, Thou leader triumphant,
and pray that Thou still our defender wilt be.
Let Thy congregation escape tribulation;
Thy name be ever praised! O Lord, make us free!