Michael A. Perry's text draws from the Emmaus story in Luke 24:13-35. As we sing it, we experience the journey to Emmaus and discover Christ in the Word (st. 1), in the breaking of bread (st. 2), and in our service to him (st. 3). The Easter "alleluias" framing this hymn were not part of the original text, which Perry (b. Beckenham, Kent, England, 1942; d. England, 1996) wrote in 1981 in Southampton, England.
Initially studying mathematics and physics at Dulwich College, Perry was headed for a career in the sciences. However, after one year of study in physics at the University of London, he transferred to Oak Hill College to study theology. He also studied at Ridley Hall, Cambridge, and received a M.Phil. from the University of Southhampton in 1973. Ordained a priest in the Church of England in 1966, Perry served the parish of St. Helen's in Liverpool as a youth worker and evangelist. From 1972 to 1981 he was the vicar of Bitterne in Southhampton and from 1981 to 1989, rector of Eversley in Hampshire and chaplain at the Police Staff College. He then became vicar of Tonbridge in Kent, where he remained until his death from a brain tumor in 1996. Perry published widely in the areas of Bible study and worship. He edited Jubilate publications such as Hymns far Today's Church (1982), Carols far Today (1986), Come Rejoice! (1989), and Psalms for Today (1990). Composer of the musical drama Coming Home (1987), he also wrote more than two hundred hymns and Bible versifications.
Liturgical Use:
Lord's Supper, especially at Easter or at any time in conjunction with the Emmaus reading.
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook
--Psalter Hymnal Handbook