An Advent Candle Lighting Song
Tune: Greensleeves, English Ballad, 16th cent. – the same tune as “What Child is This?”
Lyrics by Rev. Elana Keppel Levy, 2022
1. The fire of hope awakes our hearts when in despair we’re sleeping.
It speaks of light while through the night the shadows swiftly creep in.
Come, see the sparks of life that burn against the pow’r of strife;
Come, stand within its glow, the holy fire of Advent.
2. The call to peace rings in our ears when all around is raging.
Within, without temptation shouts – our wrathful whims engaging.
Wait, wait, our Savior’s near: our weapons drop to the ground here.
Be joined in family, the holy fire of Advent.
3. The pulse of joy flies through our veins – the grace of God flows in us.
Its steady thrum helps us become disciples foll’wing Jesus.
Hold fast the Spirit’s way, though evil holds such a strong sway.
Embrace new life in Christ, the holy fire of Advent.
4. The song of love, first dreamt by God, is everywhere indwelling.
Its tune ascends and has no end – yet we’re so often rebelling.
We, too, can lift our voice – as saints throughout the world rejoice.
Transformed by serving all, the holy fire of Advent.
5. The child is here, the mystery of God who walks beside us.
From start of time to end divine, Christ’s always there to guide us.
Born, born in every soul – his mercy making our wounds whole.
Christ comes to earth again, the holy fire of Advent.
[OR use one of the verses of “What Child is This?” for the fifth verse]
Image credit: “Dancing Fire” by Umberto Salvagnin, 2011.
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