Advent Hymn for Hope

I'm feeling connected to our faith ancestors this advent...

We sang this beautiful hymn this morning at Lake Street Church on the first Sunday in Advent. Sometimes I think I'm a rare bird in my generation, with such a love of hymns. (I love NEW music, too, and happen think the church and world need us to write new music and lyrics). This morning, I appreciated all the music that has abided for generations. We lit the advent candle of hope. I'm grateful for the hope which has seen our foremothers and fathers through; their testimonies and accomplishments nourish my own.

All my hope on God is founded;
God doth still my trust renew,
me through change and chance does guideth,
only good and only true.
God unknown, God alone calls my heart to be her own.

Pride of man and earthly glory,
sword and crown betray our trust;
what with care and toil we buildeth,
tower and temple fall to dust.
But God's power,hour by hour,
is my temple and my tower.

God's great goodness aye endureth,
deep Her wisdom, passing thought:
splendor, light and life attend Her,
beauty springeth out of naught.
Evermore
from Her store
newborn worlds rise and adore.

Daily doth the almighty Giver
bounteous gifts on us bestow;
Her desire our soul delighteth,
pleasure leads us where we go.
Love doth stand at Her hand;
joy doth wait on Her command.

Still from us to God eternal
sacrifice of praise be done,
high above all praises praising
for the gift of Christ, Her Son.
Christ doth call one and all:
ye who follow shall not fall.

Words: Robert Bridges (1844-1930);based on the German on Joachim Neander (1650-1680);
inclusive language edits mine.