One Hope Project sings, ‘What Child is This?’ How would you describe this child Jesus, the one for whom we are waiting in this season?

What Child is this, who, laid to rest,

On Mary's lap is sleeping?

Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,

While shepherds watch are keeping?

This, this is Christ, the King,

Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:

Haste, haste to bring Him laud,

The Babe, the Son of Mary!

Why lies He in such mean estate,

Where ox and ass are feeding?

Good Christian, fear: for sinners here

The silent Word is pleading.

This, this is Christ, the King,

Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:

Haste, haste to bring Him laud,

The Babe, the Son of Mary!

So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh,

Come, peasant, king to own Him.

The King of kings salvation brings;

Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

This, this is Christ, the King,

Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:

Haste, haste to bring Him laud,

The Babe, the Son of Mary!

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.

Matthew 11:11-15

Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came; and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. Let anyone with ears listen!

In the Second Week of Advent, our passage brings us to John the Baptist.

What we know of John recalls the great prophets - those who spoke out against the people’s failings and pointed them toward God’s promise. Despite his recognition of who Jesus is, John never becomes a disciple of Jesus. What is your response to John and his role in the Advent journey?

Time seems to twist as we witness the relationship between John and Jesus unfolding in the weeks leading up to the Incarnation. Despite the greatness of John, Jesus reminds us that we are in a more privileged position. As believing Christians, we have our place in the Kingdom of God. How does this assurance feel to you?

“Let anyone with ears listen!” As we listen to this very short passage again, we listen for the passion in Jesus’ voice - his desire to burst into our lives.

Matthew 11:11-15

Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came; and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. Let anyone with ears listen!

In a time of prayer, ask the Lord for guidance: how to let go of the old ways and turn toward the new.

O Wisdom

Lord and Ruler

Root of Jesse

Key of David

Rising Sun

King of the Nations

Emmanuel

Come, Lord Jesus