This week Cheryl and I attended the mid-week Advent Service where our son-in-law is the pastor. His services this year had the theme Ponder, Pray, and Praise. This service emphasized that we should indeed Praise the one who kept His promise to send Jesus, who accomplished our forgiveness, life and salvation through His life, suffering and death.

That reminded me of this Advent Hymn. Read – or sing – these words today and let this mind be in you.

Let the earth now praise the Lord, Who has truly kept his word
And at last to us did send Christ, the sinner’s help and friend.

What the fathers most desired, What the prophets’ heart inspired,
What they longed for many a year, Stands fulfilled in glory here.

Abram’s promised great reward, Zion’s helper, Jacob’s Lord
Him of twofold race behold Truly came, as long foretold.

As your coming was in peace, Quiet, full of gentleness,
Let the same mind dwell in me Which is yours eternally.

Bruise for me the Serpent’s head That, set free from doubt and dread,
I may cling to you in faith, Safely kept through life and death.

Then when You will come again As the glorious king to reign,
I with joy will see Your face, Freely ransomed by Your grace.
(Lutheran Service Book 352)