Now Let Us From This Table Rise

“Now Let Us From This Table Rise” is a communion hymn by Fred Kaan that focuses on the vital connection between the Lord’s Table and the Christian’s calling in daily life. Rather than ending worship at the moment of sacramental participation, the hymn deliberately turns the congregation outward, reminding believers that communion with Christ necessarily leads to service in the world. The table is not an endpoint, but a place of preparation and renewal for faithful obedience.

The hymn draws strong meaning from Luke 22:19-20 and 1 Corinthians 11:26, where the Lord’s Supper is presented as both remembrance and proclamation. In partaking of the bread and cup, believers declare the Lord’s death and reaffirm their union with Him. Kaan’s text emphasizes that this sacred act must shape how Christians live once they leave the gathered assembly. What is received in worship must be lived out in witness.

A major theological strength of the hymn is its clear call to ethical discipleship. Echoing Micah 6:8, the text urges believers to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. The grace received at the table becomes the motivation for compassion, justice, and faithful service. This guards against a purely inward or ritualistic understanding of communion and places it firmly within the life of Christian obedience.

The sending emphasis of the hymn aligns closely with Matthew 28:19-20. Having been nourished by Christ, the church is sent into the world to serve, teach, and bear witness. The hymn reminds worshipers that Christ goes with them beyond the sanctuary, strengthening them for every task to which He calls them.

James 2:17 is reflected in the hymn’s insistence that faith must be active and visible. True participation in the Lord’s Supper results in transformed living. “Now Let Us From This Table Rise” remains a powerful and practical hymn for communion services, especially as a closing response, calling believers to carry the love, unity, and mission of Christ into the world they serve.

This media is licensed under the terms of Hope Publishing: one copy