As we prepare our hearts and souls for Christmas

As I have been pondering what kind of Christmas greeting to send our friends all over the world, I came across a hymn in my daily Advent readings that expressed my hearts desire... and our hopes for you as well. May this time of Advent be a special time of spiritual preparation for each of you.

COME THOU LONG-EXPECTED JESUS

Come, thou long-expected Jesus

Born to set thy people free;

From our fears and sins release us,

Let us find our rest in thee.

Israel’s strength and consolation,

Hope of all the earth thou art;

Dear desire of every nation,

Joy of every longing heart.

Born they people to deliver,

Born a child and yet a King,

Born to reign in us forever,

Now thy gracious kingdom bring.

By thing own eternal spirit

Rule in all our hearts alone;

By thine all sufficient merit,

Raise us to thy glorious throne.

Charles Wesley