Hope on Both Sides of Eternity

Today, the Advent Season begins, and we light the Candle of Hope. Hope is like a light shining in a dark place.  It allows us to see beyond the right now and yearn for what will be.  Regardless of our current circumstances, we can have a blessed assurance that all the days adorned for us were written in His book before one of them ever came to be! (Psalm 139:16) I don’t know about you, but that provides me so much hope for what has yet to come…both on this side of eternity and forever.  

This week we will continue to focus on hope as we explore the lyrics of the classic Christmas hymn, O Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel.  While our source of truth is always found in scripture, many songs we sing this time of year have deep scriptural roots.  By better understanding lyrics and how they relate to scripture, we can be better positioned to boldly, genuinely and lovingly raise our voices in song. 

For added context, the lyrics for Oh Come, Oh Come, Emmanuel comes from a 7 verse poem that dates back to the 8th century. The original text created the reverse acrostic ero cras, which means “I shall be with you tomorrow.” A version with just five of the verses appeared in the 13th century, which was translated into English in 1851. Each of the five verses explores one of the names for the Messiah:

“Emmanuel” (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23) means “God with us”

“Adonai” (Exodus 19:16) is a name for God, the giver of the law

“Branch of Jesse” (Isaiah 11:1) refers to Jesus’ lineage

“Oriens” (Malachi 4:2, Luke 1:78-79) is the morning star or daystar

“Key of David” (Isaiah 22:22) again refers to Jesus’ lineage

This week we will look at each verse in greater detail and see how each view of Jesus gives us reason to have hope this season and beyond! We will also provide daily scripture references and action steps for those who want to dig deeper.

Here’s a version of this week’s song for you to enjoy!

Scripture References

Proverbs 23:18, Romans 15:13, Psalm 62:5-6, Isaiah 40:31

Action Step

Today, open your bible or click here and locate the scriptures above.  As you read, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what God would like you to to know about Him and His character as written in those Scriptures.  Praise Him for what He reveals and that the Holy Spirit revealed it to you!

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