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.”

Chained without freedom’s hope

Slaves to enemy’s grip

Bound in his deception

Lost in darkness, faith’s flagship

God sows fresh seeds of hope

Promised redemption’s road

Light upon wilderness

Blessed revelation’s code

Prayer seeks divine hope

Messenger prepares way

Foretold in prophet’s words

Endless night searches for day

God’s narrative shares hope

His Word shall become flesh

Faith’s promises fulfilled

Harvest’s righteous grain to thresh

New birth of living hope

Forgiveness leads outcome

Salvation shall rescue

Waiting for who is to come

Advent Prayer:  Heavenly Father,  as we remember and reflect upon this Advent season, assist us in turning our hearts toward You as we approach the birth of Your blessed Son.  Encourage us to celebrate the gifts received from that very first Christmas:  hope, peace, joy, and love.  Amen.

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.