This is our accepted time

“This Is Our Accepted Time” is a Lenten hymn written by Michael Gannon and published in 1955. Its central theme comes from 2 Corinthians 6:2, where the apostle Paul declares, “behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (KJV). The hymn calls worshippers to respond to God's gracious invitation with repentance, prayer, fasting, and a renewed commitment to the spiritual life. Its message emphasizes the urgency of seeking God's mercy while the opportunity to respond to Him remains.

The text reflects the traditional Lenten emphasis on repentance and self-examination. Prayer and fasting are presented as practices that help believers turn their attention away from worldly distractions and toward God. These practices do not purchase forgiveness or earn salvation, but should express a sincere desire to seek the Lord and walk in obedience to His Word. Joel 2:12 calls God's people to return to Him “with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning.” The hymn's call to penitence is consistent with this biblical invitation to return to God wholeheartedly.

The hymn also recognizes human frailty and mortality. Its reflection on humanity returning to dust recalls Genesis 3:19 and encourages humility before the Lord. Yet its prayer for mercy does not end in despair. It looks to God as the source of pardon, peace, and lasting joy. The Christian hope of forgiveness rests ultimately in God's grace through Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection provide the foundation for salvation.

The hymn is associated with the tune WEIMAR, composed by Melchior Vulpius and published in 1609. The tune is also known by the name JESU KREUZ, LEIDEN UND PEIN and is commonly identified with the meter 7.6.7.6 D. Its historic chorale character makes it suitable for congregational singing during Lent, penitential services, and worship focused on repentance and spiritual renewal.