From time to time I compose lyrics to familiar hymn tunes. What follows is a hymn for the Lord’s Supper, and I’ve titled it “O Take and Eat.” It’s set to the tune of “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus,” and it has five verses.
In verses 1 and 2, we’re thinking about Christ’s words at the Last Supper. In verse 3, we’re thinking about the good news of Christ’s finished work. In verse 4, we’re remembering that his death was not the end. And in verse 5, we’re rejoicing in the truth of the empty tomb and the hope of his Second Coming.
“O Take and Eat”
Written May 2025
To the tune of “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus”
VERSE 1
This is my body now given for you
This is my body now given for you
This is my body now given for you
So take and eat, O take and eat
VERSE 2
This cup is my blood now poured out for you
This cup is my blood now poured out for you
This cup is my blood now poured out for you
So take and drink, O take and drink
VERSE 3
Upon the cross He made full atonement
Upon the cross He made full atonement
Upon the cross He made full atonement
So rest in Christ, O rest in Christ
VERSE 4
Let us remember the death of Jesus
Let us remember the death of Jesus
Let us remember the death of Jesus
And yet He lives, O yet He lives
VERSE 5
The tomb is empty, the Lord is risen
The tomb is empty, the Lord is risen
The tomb is empty, the Lord is risen
And soon will come, O soon will come