To Prepare Your Heart for the Coming of the Lord
Advent, the season of anticipation and preparation, is enriched by hymns that evoke a longing for Christ’s coming. These sacred songs not only stir our hearts but also connect us to centuries of Christian tradition.
Among the most beloved is the hauntingly beautiful O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, a hymn whose history and meaning illuminate the spirit of Advent.
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel
The origins of O Come, O Come, Emmanuel trace back to the 8th or 9th century, when the Church used the "O Antiphons" during the final days of Advent. These antiphons-- short verses sung before the Magnificat at evening prayer-- highlight different titles of the Messiah, such as "O Wisdom," "O Root of Jesse," and "O Emmanuel."
In the 12th century, these antiphons were woven into a Latin hymn, Veni, Veni, Emmanuel. Centuries later, in 1851, the hymn was translated into English by Anglican priest John Mason Neale. Its melody, drawn from a 15th-century plainsong, captures the hopeful yearning for Christ’s arrival.
The hymn's verses reflect the profound hope of Israel for the Messiah and the Church’s anticipation of Christ’s return. Singing O Come, O Come, Emmanuel invites us to join this sacred longing, praying, “Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.”
Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus
Another cherished Advent hymn is Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus, written in 1744 by Charles Wesley. Inspired by the widespread poverty and hardship he witnessed, Wesley penned this hymn as a prayer for Christ’s redemptive reign.
Its simple yet profound lyrics-- “Born thy people to deliver, born a child and yet a king”-- remind us of the dual nature of Christ’s mission: to redeem us and reign as our King. The hymn echoes the hope of Advent, urging us to prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.
People, Look East
People, Look East is a lesser-known yet joyful Advent hymn that originates from 20th-century England. Written by Eleanor Farjeon, its lively melody and poetic lyrics encourage us to prepare for the coming of Christ with eager expectation. Each verse uses imagery from daily life-- planting seeds, preparing homes, and lighting fires-- to emphasize the call to ready our hearts for the Light of the World.
Advent hymns are more than melodies. They are prayers set to music, guiding us through the season’s themes of longing, hope, and joy. They remind us of the profound truths of our faith: God is with us, redemption is near, and the world will one day be renewed in Christ.
This Advent, consider incorporating these hymns into your prayer or family traditions. Reflect on the rich history and profound theology they offer, allowing their words and melodies to deepen your spiritual preparation. As you sing, let your heart join the ancient cry of God’s people: Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee!
By Andrea DePaola
Bookmark and visit NorwichDiocese.org/Advent for additional resources this Advent season.