In between the Godless secular songs like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Up on a Housetop,” you may hear the strains of an old hymn by Charles Wesley called “Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus.” It was written in 1744:
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 Thy people to deliver, born a child, and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever, now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit rule in all our hearts alone;
by Thine own sufficient merit, raise us to Thy glorious throne.
Charles Wesley Hymns are my favorites.
If they do play Christmas music in the mall, they usually play instrumentals….so no one hears the words. When I was a child, we used to go caroling in the neighborhood. That doesn’t happen anymore either.
Wow, iโd have loved to of heard you singing the carols, your voice is beautiful! ๐
Yes itโs sad the powerful and truthful words are being dissolved to along with the Christmas message. Sarah & i have lived in our home for 7 years and never had carol singers once! ๐ฆ
Thanks Mary for stopping by and commenting, itโs such a blessing to meet up with you here! ๐