A Time of Preparation
Advent is a time of preparation as our King of Kings draws near. The poetry of this old hymn says it all so well.
Lift up your heads, ye mighty gates! Behold, the King of glory waits. The King of kings is drawing near; The Savior of the world is here. Life and Salvation He doth bring; Therefore rejoice and gladly sing, To God the Father raise Your joyful songs of praise.
A righteous Helper comes to thee; His chariot is humility, His kingly crown is holiness, His scepter, pity in distress. The end of all our woe He brings; Therefore the earth is glad and sings. To Christ the Savior raise Your grateful hymns of praise.
How blest the land, the city blest, Where Christ the ruler is confessed! O peaceful hearts and happy homes to whom this King in triumph comes! The cloudless sun of joy is He Who comes to set His people free. To God the Spirit raise Your happy shouts of praise.
Fling wide the portals of your heart; Make it a temple set apart From earthly use for heaven’s employ, Adorned with prayer and love and joy. So shall your Sov’reign enter in And new and nobler life begin. To God alone be praise For word and deed and grace!
Redeemer, come and open wide My heart to Thee; here, Lord, abide! O enter with Thy grace divine; They face of mercy on me shine. Thy Holy Spirit guide us on Until our glorious goal is won. Eternal praise and fame We offer to Thy name.
“Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates” LSB 340
May your Advent activities provide you, with the help of the Holy Spirit, a chance to share the Gospel message and grace of God as seen in the giving of Jesus Christ for our salvation.
