Advent, which means "coming" or "arrival," is a time of preparation for the birth of Christ, and a celebration of God's unconditional love. This meditation features the photographs of Mike DuBose, Kathleen Barry and others, over the hymn tune, "O come, O come, Emmanuel," dating from the 12th century. The human condition can, at times, be one of struggle, yet through faith, the spirit rises above even tragedy, and hope and love prevail.
Lyrics to verses 1 and 4 of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel"
O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel
O come, thou Dayspring
Come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine Advent here
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night
And death's dark shadows
Put to flight
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.
Originally published by UMC.org, Nov. 29, 2013.