Stichting Opwekking 275: 'Wij Zijn Hier Gekomen' Lyrics
Hey guys! Let's dive into the lyrics of a powerful worship song from Stichting Opwekking, specifically song number 275, titled "Wij Zijn Hier Gekomen." This song is a staple in many Dutch churches and Christian gatherings, known for its heartfelt message and congregational appeal. Whether you're a long-time follower of Opwekking songs or just discovering them, understanding the lyrics can deepen your connection to the worship experience. So, grab your Bibles, maybe a cup of coffee, and let's break down this beautiful piece together!
Understanding the Core Message
The central theme of "Wij Zijn Hier Gekomen" is worship and praise, centered around the presence of God. The title itself, which translates to "We Have Come Here," immediately sets the tone. It's a declaration of intentionality – people have gathered with a specific purpose: to encounter God. The lyrics elaborate on why they have come, focusing on God's goodness, His love, and His mighty works. It speaks of anticipation, of seeking His face, and of surrendering to His will. This song isn't just about singing words; it's about entering into a sacred space with a mindset of reverence and expectation. We're not just here by accident; we've come to meet with the Almighty, to offer our adoration, and to receive from Him. The lyrics often build in intensity, reflecting the growing excitement and spiritual fervor as the congregation unites in song. It’s about the collective journey of faith, acknowledging that when believers come together in His name, His presence is promised and powerfully felt. This theme resonates deeply because it taps into the fundamental human desire for connection, especially a connection with the divine. The song serves as a reminder that church services, prayer meetings, and even personal devotionals are opportunities to step into God's presence, leaving the worries of the world behind and focusing on the One who created us and sustains us. The repetition of key phrases often reinforces the message, making it easy for everyone to join in and feel a part of the unified expression of faith. It’s a song that encourages active participation, not just passive listening. The lyrics paint a picture of a community gathered, united in their love and respect for God, ready to pour out their hearts in song and prayer. It's a truly special part of the Stichting Opwekking collection, offering a profound spiritual experience for all who engage with it. The song's structure often mirrors a spiritual journey, starting with an invitation and building towards a crescendo of praise and thanksgiving, making it a dynamic and engaging worship anthem.
The Lyrics of 'Wij Zijn Hier Gekomen'
Let's break down the lyrics stanza by stanza. Keep in mind that translations can sometimes vary slightly, but the essence remains the same. The song typically begins with an invocation, calling upon God and expressing the reason for gathering.
Verse 1:
"Wij zijn hier gekomen, Heer, om U te aanbidden." (We have come here, Lord, to worship You.)
This opening is direct and purposeful. It establishes the primary reason for the gathering: worship. It's a bold statement of intent, declaring that the focus is solely on God. The use of "Heer" (Lord) immediately elevates the subject of their praise. This isn't just a casual meeting; it's a divine appointment.
"Uw Naam te verhogen, voor al Uw weldaden." (To exalt Your Name, for all Your kindnesses.)
Here, the lyrics expand on the how and why of worship. "Verhogen" (to exalt) implies lifting God up, placing Him in the highest position. The reason given is "al Uw weldaden" (all Your kindnesses/good deeds). This points to gratitude as a foundational element of their worship. They are recognizing God's past actions, His faithfulness, and His provision. This acknowledgment of His goodness fuels their praise.
"U alleen bent waardig, met lof en met eer." (You alone are worthy, with praise and with honor.)
This is a crucial declaration of God's sovereignty and worthiness. The lyrics emphasize that God alone deserves this level of adoration. It sets Him apart from anything else in the world. The words "lof" (praise) and "eer" (honor) are powerful terms that convey deep respect and adoration. This verse is a strong foundation, setting a reverent and focused atmosphere for the worship to follow. It’s about making a conscious decision to shift focus from ourselves and our circumstances to the unparalleled greatness of God. The beauty of these lines lies in their simplicity and profound theological truth: our worship is directed towards the One who is inherently worthy, not based on our feelings or fleeting circumstances. The collective singing of these words by a congregation creates a powerful affirmation of faith, strengthening the spiritual bonds within the community. It’s a declaration that resonates not just in the church hall, but in the hearts of every believer present, reminding them of their purpose and their source of strength. The emphasis on God's sole worthiness is a cornerstone of Christian theology, and this song beautifully encapsulates that truth in an accessible way. It’s an invitation to lay down any pretense and simply acknowledge the majestic reality of who God is.
Chorus:
"Wij zijn hier gekomen, om U te loven." (We have come here, to praise You.)
The chorus often reiterates the main theme, acting as the central anchor of the song. It's a strong, clear statement of purpose. "Loven" (to praise) is an active verb, suggesting a vocal and expressive form of worship. This is the heart of the gathering – praise.
"Wij zijn hier gekomen, om U te eren." (We have come here, to honor You.)
"Eren" (to honor) complements "loven." While praise might be more outward expression, honor often implies a deeper respect and acknowledgment of God's position and value. It’s about recognizing His majesty and treating Him with the dignity He deserves.
"Wij zijn hier gekomen, met blijdschap in 't hart." (We have come here, with joy in our hearts.)
This line introduces the emotional aspect of worship: joy. It emphasizes that their coming is not out of obligation alone, but out of a genuine, internal happiness rooted in their relationship with God. Joy in worship is a sign of recognizing His presence and His blessings.
"Wij zijn hier gekomen, voor Uw aangezicht." (We have come here, for Your face.)
This is a profound expression of seeking intimacy with God. "Voor Uw aangezicht" (for Your face) is a biblical idiom often referring to seeking God's presence directly, desiring to be in His company and to experience His nearness. It’s the ultimate goal of worship – to connect with God Himself.
The chorus is designed to be sung with energy and conviction. It’s the part of the song where the congregation typically gets most involved, their voices rising together in a unified declaration of faith and devotion. The repetition of "Wij zijn hier gekomen" emphasizes the deliberate choice and commitment of the worshippers. It’s a powerful affirmation that grounds the entire worship experience. The inclusion of joy highlights that worship is not meant to be somber or burdensome, but a celebration of God's love and presence. The culmination of the chorus, seeking God's face, points to the deepest desire of a worshipper – to know God more intimately. This section is the heartbeat of the song, driving home the core message with repetition and increasing spiritual momentum. It’s where the collective spirit of the gathering truly shines, as individuals unite their voices and hearts in a shared expression of adoration and longing for divine connection. The simplicity of the words makes them accessible to everyone, ensuring that the message of purposeful worship and joyful seeking of God is clearly communicated and felt throughout the congregation.
Verse 2:
"U bent onze Koning, U bent onze Heer." (You are our King, You are our Lord.)
This verse reaffirms God's authority and dominion. "Koning" (King) speaks of His rule and reign, while "Heer" (Lord) speaks of His mastership and authority over our lives. It's a declaration of His supreme position.
"U heeft ons gemaakt, U bent steeds weer." (You made us, You are always again.)
This line acknowledges God as the Creator. "U heeft ons gemaakt" (You made us) points to His role in their very existence. The phrase "U bent steeds weer" is a bit more nuanced; it can imply His constant presence, His faithfulness that is always renewed, or His ongoing work in their lives. It speaks to God's enduring nature and His continuous involvement.
"Wij buigen ons neer, voor Uw majesteit." (We bow down, before Your majesty.)
This is a physical and spiritual act of submission and reverence. "Buigen ons neer" (bow down) is a posture of humility and acknowledging God's supreme authority and greatness ("majesteit"). It’s a visible sign of their internal attitude.
"U bent de bron, van alle eeuwigheid." (You are the source, of all eternity.)
This powerful statement highlights God's eternal nature and His role as the ultimate origin. "Bron" (source) implies that everything good, all life, and all truth originates from Him. "Alle eeuwigheid" (all eternity) emphasizes His timelessness, existing before time and beyond it.
Verse 2 builds on the foundation of the first verse by specifically identifying who they are worshipping. It moves from the general act of worship to articulating specific attributes of God: His kingship, His role as Creator, and His eternal nature. The imagery of bowing down is a potent symbol of humility and surrender, essential components of true worship. It’s a reminder that when we come before God, we come before the ultimate authority, the one who holds all things in His hands. The declaration that He is the source of all eternity underscores His transcendence and His fundamental importance in understanding existence itself. These lyrics encourage believers to reflect on the vastness and power of God, prompting a deeper sense of awe and wonder. It’s a call to recognize that our lives, our world, and indeed all of reality find their ultimate meaning and origin in Him. The transition from praising His actions to praising His inherent being and attributes is a natural progression in worship, moving from gratitude for what He has done to adoration for who He is. This section of the song serves to deepen the theological understanding and spiritual impact of the worship experience, reminding everyone present of the magnificent God they serve.
Bridge:
"Laat alles wat adem heeft, Uw Naam loven." (Let everything that has breath, praise Your Name.)
The bridge often introduces a broader perspective or a heightened emotional plea. This line is a direct echo of Psalm 150:6, "Let everything that has breath praise the LORD." It’s a call for universal praise, extending beyond the gathered congregation to all of creation.
"Zing voortdurend, Heer, Uw grote goedheid." (Sing continually, Lord, Your great goodness.)
This is an encouragement for persistent praise. It’s not just a one-time act but a continuous lifestyle of recognizing and singing about God's "grote goedheid" (great goodness). It calls for ongoing gratitude and celebration of His character.
"Laat onze harten vlammen, van liefde voor U." (Let our hearts burn, with love for You.)
This is a passionate expression of devotion and love. The image of hearts "vlammen" (burning) signifies an intense, passionate, and fervent love for God. It’s a desire for a deep, burning connection.
"Wij leven voor U, Heer, U bent genoeg." (We live for You, Lord, You are enough.)
This powerful declaration speaks of surrender and sufficiency. "Wij leven voor U" (We live for You) signifies a life wholly dedicated to God's purpose. The concluding phrase, "U bent genoeg" (You are enough), is incredibly liberating. It means that in God, we have all that we truly need. He is sufficient for every situation, every need, every desire of our soul. This is the ultimate realization that brings true peace and contentment.
The bridge section often serves as a turning point in the song, elevating the worship to a new level of intensity and aspiration. The call for all creation to praise God is a grand and humbling thought, reminding us of our place within a much larger cosmic symphony of worship. The encouragement to sing continually shifts the focus from a singular event to a way of life, embedding the practice of praise into the fabric of daily existence. The imagery of burning hearts speaks to the deep emotional and spiritual connection that worship fosters, moving beyond mere intellectual assent to a passionate embrace of God's love. Perhaps the most profound statement is "You are enough." In a world that constantly tells us we need more – more possessions, more success, more recognition – this line is a radical declaration of contentment and fulfillment found solely in God. It reassures believers that no matter their circumstances, their ultimate satisfaction and provision are found in Him alone. This realization fuels a life of purpose and dedication, as articulated in "We live for You." The bridge perfectly encapsulates the transformative power of encountering God, leading to a life of passionate love, unwavering commitment, and complete satisfaction.
Outro:
The song typically concludes by repeating the chorus or a key phrase, often fading out or ending with a strong declaration of God's presence and worthiness. This reinforces the main message and leaves the congregation in a state of continued reflection and worship.
Why These Lyrics Resonate
"Wij Zijn Hier Gekomen" resonates deeply because it speaks to fundamental aspects of the Christian faith and human experience. Firstly, the clarity of purpose is refreshing. In a world often filled with distractions and ambiguity, the song's directness about coming to worship, praise, and honor God is grounding. Secondly, the emphasis on God's worthiness and sovereignty is biblically sound and spiritually uplifting. It shifts the focus from human limitations to divine omnipotence. Thirdly, the inclusion of joy and passion acknowledges that worship is not meant to be a dull duty but a vibrant celebration of a relationship with a loving God. Finally, the ultimate message of God's sufficiency offers profound comfort and assurance. These elements combine to make "Wij Zijn Hier Gekomen" a powerful and enduring worship song that continues to inspire and connect with believers across generations.
Conclusion
Stichting Opwekking 275, "Wij Zijn Hier Gekomen," is more than just a song; it's an anthem of intentional worship. Its lyrics guide the congregation through a journey of acknowledging God's greatness, expressing gratitude, seeking His presence, and declaring His sufficiency. By focusing on these core themes, the song effectively fosters a deep and meaningful connection between God and His people. So the next time you hear this song, whether in a large gathering or in a quiet moment of personal reflection, remember the profound message contained within its verses and chorus. Let it inspire you to come before God with a heart full of praise, honor, and joy, knowing that He alone is worthy and He is always enough. Keep singing, keep praising, and keep seeking His face, guys! It's a beautiful journey.
