From Isaiah 9:2:  “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined.”

Awaiting salvation

Praying for His coming

Lord, Savior, Prince of Peace

Crowning hope’s homecoming

Seeking mercy’s refuge

Praying for faith to speak

Rock built with God’s goodness

Boosting hope, small and weak

Sharing God’s depth of love

Praying for grace-filled news

His assurance sows trust

Walking in hope’s new shoes

Inviting our wonder

Praying hearts, blessed with praise

Darkness fades, peace arrives

Lighting hope’s steadfast blaze

One of Advent’s most enduring hymns is “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.”  The original text was composed in Latin during the 12th century.  In 1861, English priest and scholar John Mason Neale translated the lyrics into what many Christians recognize and sing today.