Frans Mikael Franzen (1772-1847) is this hymn’s author. He was born in Finland but for most of his life lived in Sweden, since at that time many Swedes who were living in Finland returned to their native land during the Napoleonic Wars. Franzen was instrumental in the preparation of the 1819 Swedish
Psalmbook
. Twenty-nine of his hymns were included in it. His hymns are artfully written yet simple in language. Ernest Edwin Ryden, a Lutheran hymnal editor, said that “the cultured person will appreciate them and the unlettered person can understand them.”
Franzen served as pastor of several churches before being appointed Bishop in the diocese of Harnosand. His territory included Lapland. From 1834 until his death in 1847, Franzen worked tirelessly for his diocese, especially ministering to those struggling with the disease of alcoholism which was so devastating to the nomads of the North.
The energetic music of “Prepare the way, O Zion” comes from a Swedish collection called
Den Svenska Psalmboken
(Stockholm, 1697). But this tune may have been adapted from German folk songs from the 16th century or earlier. The tune was associated first with a table prayer “Lord Christ, we bless thee now.” After 1812 it became paired with Franzen’s hymn text. BEREDEN VAG FOR HERRAN is the tune name, “prepare ye the way of the Lord” in Swedish.
Prepare the way, O Zion, your Christ is drawing near!
Let every hill and valley a level way appear.
Greet One who comes in glory, foretold in sacred story.
Oh, blest is Christ that came in God’s most holy name.
He brings God’s rule, O Zion; he comes from heaven above.
His rule is peace and freedom, and justice, truth, and love.
Lift high your praise resounding, for grace and joy abounding.
Oh, blest is Christ that came in God’s most holy name.
Fling wide your gates, O Zion; your Savior’s rule embrace.
His tidings of salvation proclaim in every place.
All lands will bow before him, their voices will adore him.
Oh, blest is Christ that came in God’s most holy name.
