We Plow the Fields

Matthias Claudius was the son of a Lutheran pastor. After studying theology, he turned his attention to law and languages. Born in 1740 in northern Germany, he loved to write and in 1768, he joined the Hamburg News Agency, first as a writer, then as an editor. He was so influential that he became known as the father of popular German journalism.

In 1782, he heard farmers singing a song that expressed their faith in God and thankfulness for His blessings. Claudius copied the words, which he developed into a hymn. In 1861, Jane Campbell translated the words into English with the title “We Plow the Fields.” These farmers realized that they could “plow the fields, and scatter the good seed,” but they depended on God to feed and water the seed. Claudius, like these farmers, knew that “all good gifts around us are sent from heaven above” and that God alone “is the Maker of all things.”

We see His hand everywhere as “He paints the wayside flower” and “lights the evening star.” We trust Him for we are “His children” and “He gives our daily bread.” Particularly during harvest time, we can marvel at the ways He provides. We see that everything is from Him. Claudius prayed that we would offer Him what He most desires, “our humble, thankful hearts.”

Think about all that God has done for you. Thank Him and show your gratitude by bringing Him your offerings.