The Rev. Paul Hemenway, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Springfield, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “Joy to the Word.” What if I told you that one of your favorite Christmas hymns isn’t really a Christmas hymn at all? This last hymn in our Countdown to Christmas series speaks more of Christ’s return than his birth, but that doesn’t keep us singing this song to celebrate Jesus’s everlasting reign! So, open up your Lutheran Service Books to 387 and get ready as we dive into: Joy to the World. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/387 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 387 1 Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Let earth receive her King: Let ev'ry heart prepare Him room And heav'n and nature sing, And heav'n and nature sing, And heav'n, and heav'n and nature sing. 2 Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns! Let men their songs employ, While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat the sounding joy. 3 No more let sins and sorrows grow Nor thorns infest the ground; He comes to make His blessings flow Far as the curse is found, Far as the curse is found, Far as, far as the curse is found. 4 He rules the world with truth and grace And makes the nations prove The glories of His righteousness And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love, And wonders, wonders of His love. Text Information First Line: Joy to the world, the Lord is come! Title: Joy to the World Author: Isaac Watts, 1674-1748 Meter: C M and refrain Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Psalm 98; Romans 5:16-19; Revelation 22:1-5 Topic: Psalm paraphrase Tune Information Name: ANTIOCH Composer: George Frideric Handel, 1685-1759 (adapt.) Arranger: Lowell Mason, 1792-1872 Meter: C M and refrain Key: D Major Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/387

The Rev. Dr. Jason Wagner, pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in High Ridge, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “We Praise You Jesus at your Birth.” Written by Martin Luther in the early 16th century, “We Praise You Jesus at Your Birth,” is studied in this episode. Discover the story behind this timeless hymn, its translations, and its journey through history. Experience the joy and wonder of Christmas through the moving lyrics that capture the spirit of Christ’s birth. Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 382 Text Information First Line: We praise You, Jesus, at Your birth Title: We Praise You, Jesus, at Your Birth Author (sts. 2-7): Martin Luther, 1483-1546 Translator (sts. 1, 6): Gregory J. Wismar, b. 1946 Translator (sts. 2, 4): F. Samuel Janzow, 1913-2001 Meter: 87 88 4 Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Luke 2:7-14; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 1:1-3 Source: Lutheran Service Book, 2006 (Tr. sts. 3, 5, 7); German, c. 1380 (st. 1) Copyright: Sts. 1, 3, 5-7 © 2006 Concordia Publishing House; Sts. 2-4 © 1978 Concordial Publishing House Tune Information Name: GELOBET SEIST DU Arranger: Jan O. Bender, 1909-94 Meter: 87 88 4 Incipit: 55565 12172 32165 Key: C Major Source: Eyn Enchiridion oder Handbüchlein, Erfurt, 1524 Copyright: Setting © 1969 Concordia Publishing House

The Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in Luverne, MN and host of the program goes solo for this study the hymn “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Turning now to LSB 379 we come upon a hymn originally titled "Adeste Fideles" in Latin. Its history is shrouded in mystery with a touch of political intrigue. It is believed to have been written by John Francis Wade, an English Catholic hymnist, in the 18th century but didn’t become popular until the 20th century. In this episode, Pastor Booe takes listeners through the history and meaning of this enduring Christmas carol. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/379 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 379 1 O come, all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant! O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem; Come and behold Him Born the king of angels; Refrain: O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord! 2 Highest, most holy, Light of Light eternal, Born of a virgin, a mortal He comes; Son of the Father Now in flesh appearing! 3 Sing, choirs of angels, Sing in exultation, Sing, all ye citizens of heaven above! Glory to God In the highest: [Refrain] 4 Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, Born this happy morning; Jesus, to Thee be glory giv'n! Word of the Father Now in flesh appearing! [Refrain] Text Information First Line: O come, all ye faithful Title: O Come, All Ye Faithful Author: John F. Wade, c. 1711-86 Translator: Frederick Oakeley, 1802-80 (alt.) Refrain First Line: O come, let us adore Him Meter: Irregular meter Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Luke 2:15 Tune Information Name: ADESTE FIDELES Composer: John F. Wade, c. 1711-86 Meter: Irregular meter Key: G Major Source: The Hymnal, 1940 (Setting)

The Rev. John Shank, pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, IL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “O Jesus Christ, Thy Manger Is.” With its deep theologically rich lyrics, “O Jesus Christ, Thy Manger Is” is a beautiful example of Lutheran hymnody. Written by Paul Gerhardt in the 1600s, the struggles of his life and his deep abiding faith in Christ come out clearly in this hymn. Join us as we discuss the beautiful imagery of this hymn and how it proclaims the good news that Christ’s birth, life, death, and resurrection were all out of his great love for you. Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 372 Text Information First Line: O Jesus Christ, Thy manger is Title: O Jesus Christ, Thy Manger Is Author: Paul Gerhardt, 1607-76 Meter: 4 4 11 D Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Luke 2:4-16; John 1:14; Matthew 20:28; John 17:23 Source: The Lutheran Hymnal, 1941 (Tr.) Copyright: Tr. © 1941 Concordia Publishing House Tune Information Name: IN PARADISIUM Composer: Kenneth T. Kosche, b. 1947 Meter: 4 4 11 D Incipit: 33212 34323 56714 Key: D Major Copyright: © 1996, Kenneth T. Kosche

The Rev. William Orr, pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in St. Ann, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “It Came upon the Midnight Clear.” A Unitarian hymn in a Lutheran hymnal? Yes, sort of. This hymn was penned by a Unitarian Pastor, but neither the pastor himself nor the lyrics he wrote were very Unitarian. Turn with us to LSB 366, “It Came upon the Midnight Clear” and explore the history and the meaning behind this hymn. Listen and find out why our hymnals are filled with hymns from many different traditions. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/366 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 366 1 It came upon the midnight clear, That glorious song of old, From angels bending near the earth To touch their harps of gold: "Peace on the earth, goodwill to all, From heav'n's all-gracious king." The world in solemn stillness lay To hear the angels sing. 2 Still through the cloven skies they come With peaceful wings unfurled, And still their heav'nly music floats O'er all the weary world. Above its sad and lowly plains They bend on hov'ring wing, And ever o'er its babel sounds The blessed angels sing. 3 All you, beneath your heavy load, By care and guilt bent low, Who toil along a dreary way With painful steps and slow: Look up, for golden is the hour, Come swiftly on the wing, The Prince was born to bring you peace; Of Him the angels sing. 4 For lo, the days have come to pass By prophets seen of old, When down into the circling years Came Christ as was foretold. His word of peace shall to the earth God's ancient promise bring, And all who take this gift will hear The song the angels sing. Text Information First Line: It came upon the midnight clear Title: It Came upon the Midnight Clear Author: Edmund H. Sears, 1810-76 (alt.) Meter: C M D Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Luke 2:13-14; Isaiah 9:4-5; Genesis 11:9 Topic: Society Tune Information Name: CAROL Composer: Richard S. Willis, 1819-1900 Meter: C M D Key: B♭ Major Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/366

The Rev. David Boisclair, senior Pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Overland, MO, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn, “Away in a Manger.” Flip the page in your Lutheran Service Book to hymn 365: “Away in a Manger.” The history behind this hymn is muddled. Some believed it was written by Martin Luther, but most historians attribute its origin to German Lutherans in Pennsylvania around 1885. In this episode, we will explore what we know about this simple, poignant hymn and hold up what it teaches against the Scriptures. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/365 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 365 1 Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head. The stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay, The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay. 2 The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes. I love Thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky, And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh. 3 Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask Thee to stay Close by me forever and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, And take us to heaven to live with Thee there. Text Information First Line: Away in a manger, no crib for a bed Title: Away in a Manger Meter: 11 11 11 11 Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Luke 2:7; Mark 10:14-16; Matthew 1:23; Matthew 28:20 Source: Little Children's book, Philadelphia, 1855 (Sts. 1-2); Vineyard Songs Louisville, 1892 (St. 3, alt.) Tune Information Name: CRADLE SONG Composer: William J. Kirkpatrick, 1838-1921 Arranger: James E. Engel, 1925-89 Meter: 11 11 11 11 Key: F Major Copyright: Setting © 1993 Mrs. James E. Engel Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/365

The Rev. George Ruwisch, pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Nashua, NH, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “Silent Night, Holy Night.” Open your hymnals to page 363 and grab a candle, it’s time to study “Silent Night, Holy Night.” Whether sung in English, German, or both, this hymn has been a perennial favorite among Christians. Jesus’ birth in a stable surrounded by animals likely wasn’t as silent as this carol suggests, but it certainly was holy! In this episode, learn more about how this cherished hymn came to be and how it can help us reflect on the significance of Christ’s coming that first Christmas! Learn more: https://hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/363 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 363 1 Silent night, holy night! All is calm, all is bright Round yon virgin mother and child. Holy Infant, so tender and mild, Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace. 2 Silent night, holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight; Glories stream from heaven afar, Heav'nly hosts sing, Alleluia! Christ, the Savior is born! Christ, the Savior is born! 3 Silent night, holy night! Son of God, love's pure light Radiant beams from Thy holy face With the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth. Text Information First Line: Silent night, holy night! Title: Silent Night, Holy Night Author: Franz Joseph Mohr, 1792-1848 Translator: John F. Young, 1820-85 Meter: 66 88 66 Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Luke 2:7-16; Colossians 1:13 Tune Information Name: STILLE NACHT Composer: Franz Xaver Gruber, 1787-1863 Meter: 66 88 66 Key: B♭ Major Source: Traditional setting Learn more: https://hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/363

The Rev. Dr. Curtis Deterding, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, FL, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn, “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” It’s time to head into Bethlehem with hymn LSB 361: “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” Written by an Episcopal Priest inspired by his own visit to Bethlehem in 1865, this contemplative and peaceful carol has become one of the most popular Christmas hymns of our time. Come learn how this Christmas hymn urges us to reflect on the birth of Jesus. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/361 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 361 1 O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie! Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by; Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting light. The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight. 2 For Christ is born of Mary, And gathered all above While mortals sleep, the angels keep Their watch of wond'ring love. O morning stars, together Proclaim the holy birth, And praises sing to God the king And peace to all the earth! 3 How silently, how silently The wondrous gift is giv'n! So God imparts to human hearts The blessings of His heav'n. No ear may hear His coming; But in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive Him, still The dear Christ enters in. 4 O holy Child of Bethlehem, Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in, Be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels The great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Immanuel! Text Information First Line: O little town of Bethlehem Title: O Little Town of Bethlehem Author: Phillips Brooks, 1835-93 Meter: 86 86 76 86 Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Luke 2:1-15; Luke 1:68-75; Ephesians 3:16-19; Micah 5:2 Notes: Alternate tune: FOREST GREEN Tune Information Name: ST. LOUIS Composer: Lewis H. Redner, 1831-1908 Meter: 86 86 76 86 Key: F Major Source: Service Book and Hymnal, 1958, alt. (Setting) Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/361

The Rev. John Lukomski, co-host of Wrestling with the Basics on KFUO Radio, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to study the hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”. Find Wrestling with the Basics at kfuo.org/WrestlingWithTheBasics. Turning now to LSB 357, we come to the ancient and beautiful Advent hymn, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” With lyrics tracing back in one form or another for over 1200 years, this hymn is based on the great ‘O Antiphons’ of the church which recall the Old Testament promises of the Messiah’s coming. This episode explores the history behind the hymn and reflects on its deep and contemplative meaning. Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/357 Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org. Lutheran Service Book 357 1 O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel! 2 O come, Thou Wisdom from on high, Who ord'rest all things mightily; To us the path of knowledge show, And teach us in her ways to go. [Refrain] 3 O come, O come, Thou Lord of might, Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's height In ancient times didst give the Law In cloud and majesty and awe. [Refrain] 4 O come, Thou Branch of Jesse's tree, Free them from Satan's tyranny That trust Thy mighty pow'r to save, And give them vict'ry o'er the grave. [Refrain] 5 O come, Thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heav'nly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery. [Refrain] 6 O come, Thou Dayspring from on high, And cheer us by Thy drawing nigh; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night, And death's dark shadows put to flight. [Refrain] 7 O come, Desire of nations, bind In one the hearts of all mankind; Bid Thou our sad divisions cease, And be Thyself our King of Peace. [Refrain] Text Information First Line: O come, O come, Emmanuel, Title: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel Translator: John Mason Neale, 1818-66 (alt.) Refrain First Line: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Meter: L M and refrain Language: English Publication Date: 2006 Scripture: Isaiah 7:10-14; Isaiah 11:1-11; Matthew 1:23 Source: Latin, c. 12th cent.; Psalteriolum Cantionum Catholicarum, Köln, 1710 Tune Information Name: VENI EMMANUEL Arranger: C. Winfred Douglas, 1867-1944 Meter: L M and refrain Key: e minor Learn more: hymnary.org/hymn/LSB2006/357

Celebrate the birth of our Savior with Thy Strong Word’s Countdown to Christmas, a special series where we explore 10 of the most beloved Christmas hymns found in the Lutheran Service Book. Learn the history and meaning of these beautiful carols and how they reflect the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Each weekday we dive into every stanza of these classic hymns and discover the rich theology and joy it expresses. Don’t miss this opportunity to prepare your hearts to receive Christ anew and rejoice with Thy Strong Word: Countdown to Christmas. Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Through the mission gifts of people like you, LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces books that are Bible-based, Christ-centered and Reformation-driven. Learn more at lhfmissions.org.