Now Praise the Hidden God of Love

“Now Praise the Hidden God of Love” by Fred Pratt Green is a profound Eucharistic hymn that reflects on the mystery of Christ’s presence in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. Drawing deeply from biblical theology, the hymn invites worshipers to praise God who chooses to reveal Himself not through spectacle or force, but through humble and hidden means. The language of the hymn emphasizes reverence, faith, and spiritual perception rather than outward sight.

The central theme is the hiddenness of God, a truth expressed in Isaiah 45:15, where God is described as One who works beyond human expectation. In the hymn, Christ is present in the breaking of bread and the sharing of the cup, echoing John 6:51, where Jesus declares Himself to be the living bread given for the life of the world. This presence is real and life-giving, yet perceived only by faith. The hymn teaches believers to trust God’s promise even when His work is veiled.

Fred Pratt Green carefully connects the Lord’s Supper with the Emmaus story in Luke 24:30-35, where the risen Christ is recognized in the breaking of bread. The hymn reflects this moment of recognition, reminding the church that Christ still makes Himself known through simple, obedient acts of worship. The table becomes a place of revelation, where hearts are opened and faith is renewed.

The hymn also carries a strong communal emphasis. By sharing one bread and one cup, believers are drawn into unity with Christ and with one another. This aligns with 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, which frames the Lord’s Supper as both remembrance and proclamation. The hymn calls the church to respond in faithful obedience, proclaiming the Lord’s death until He comes, even as they receive His sustaining grace.

“Now Praise the Hidden God of Love” is well suited for communion services where thoughtful reflection and theological depth are desired. Its strength lies in its ability to hold together mystery and assurance, humility and praise. The hymn encourages believers to worship a God who is truly present, though unseen, and to rejoice in the quiet, transforming grace given through Christ.