I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light Meaning, History, and Theology
"I want to walk as a child of the light"
- Written
- 1966
- Category
- Hymn
- Tune
- Standard Tune
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Story
I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light is a contemporary hymn written and composed by Kathleen Thomerson. Inspired by biblical imagery of Christ as the light of the world, the hymn calls believers to live as reflections of that light. Its joyful message of discipleship and revelation has made it a favorite in Epiphany worship.
Overview
I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light is a contemporary hymn that celebrates the Christian calling to live in the light of Christ. Written and composed by Kathleen Thomerson, the hymn expresses a desire to follow Jesus faithfully and reflect his light in the world.
The hymn draws on biblical imagery of light and darkness that appears throughout Scripture. By identifying Christ as the source of true illumination, the text invites believers to live lives shaped by truth, goodness, and love.
Because of its strong biblical imagery and joyful tone, the hymn is frequently sung during seasons that emphasize revelation and transformation, particularly Epiphany and Baptism celebrations.
Historical Background
Kathleen Thomerson wrote both the text and melody of I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light in 1966 while working as a church musician in Houston Texas. The hymn reportedly emerged from a personal moment of inspiration during her ministry.
The hymn was later published in several hymnals beginning in the late twentieth century. Its combination of accessible language, strong biblical imagery, and memorable melody helped it spread quickly across many denominations.
Today the hymn is widely used in Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, and other Protestant traditions, especially in services highlighting themes of light and discipleship.
Biblical Foundations
The hymn is rooted in biblical language describing Christ as the light of the world. In the Gospel of John, Jesus declares that those who follow him will walk in the light rather than darkness.
The New Testament also teaches that believers themselves are called to live as children of light. This metaphor signifies a life shaped by righteousness, truth, and love.
The prophetic imagery of light shining in darkness further reinforces the theme that God's presence brings guidance and hope to the world.
Verse Explanation
The opening stanza expresses a desire to follow Christ and walk faithfully in his light. It introduces the central metaphor that shapes the hymn.
The following stanza reflects on the brightness and beauty of God's presence revealed through Christ. The imagery emphasizes joy and wonder at divine illumination.
The final stanza calls believers to live as reflections of this light, sharing Christ's love and truth with others.
Together the stanzas move from personal commitment to communal witness.
Theological Reflection
A central theological theme of the hymn is discipleship. To walk as a child of the light means to follow Christ in both belief and action.
Another theme is revelation. In Christian theology the light of Christ reveals God's character and illuminates the path of faithful living.
The hymn also reflects the doctrine of sanctification as believers grow into lives that reflect the light of Christ through love and service.
Church Impact
Since its publication in the late twentieth century, I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light has become a staple of modern hymnody. It appears in numerous denominational hymnals and is frequently used in worship services focused on discipleship and revelation.
The hymn is especially associated with the Epiphany season when the church celebrates Christ as the light revealed to the nations.
Through its simple yet profound message the hymn continues to encourage believers to live as visible witnesses of God's light in the world.
Musical Notes
The tune HOUSTON composed by Kathleen Thomerson accompanies the text and contributes greatly to the hymn's popularity. The melody is lyrical and uplifting with a moderate range suitable for congregational singing.
Its melodic structure highlights the imagery of light through rising phrases and expressive movement. The refrain-like ending reinforces the hymn's central theme.
Because of its accessibility the tune has become a favorite in many congregations and choir repertoires.
Application
- Seek to reflect the character of Christ in daily actions and decisions.
- Recognize that following Jesus involves living in truth and integrity.
- Allow the light of Christ to guide choices and relationships.
- Encourage communities to shine God's light through acts of compassion.
- Celebrate the transforming power of Christ's presence in the world.
Discussion Questions
- What does it mean to walk as a child of the light?
- How does the imagery of light help explain Christian discipleship?
- What biblical passages inspire the themes of this hymn?
- How can believers reflect Christ's light in everyday life?
- Why is the theme of light important during the Epiphany season?
Teaching Tips
- Introduce the hymn during lessons on biblical metaphors of light and darkness.
- Read John 8 before singing to emphasize the theme of Christ as the light of the world.
- Encourage reflection on ways Christians can shine light through acts of kindness.
- Use the hymn during Epiphany services to reinforce the theme of revelation.
- Invite congregational participation by highlighting the hymn's accessible melody.
Sources
-
The Canterbury Dictionary of Hymnology
-
Hymnary.org
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The Oxford Handbook of Hymnology
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Modern denominational hymnals and commentary
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A Dictionary of Hymnology by John Julian
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