We are all familiar with the hymn O come, O come, Emmanuel. This is a paraphrase of the “O Antiphons” which can be traced back to eighth century Christendom. These antiphons use biblical imagery drawn from the messianic promises of the Old Testament to proclaim the coming of the Christ. Each antiphon is a name of Christ, one of His attributes mentioned in Scripture. The repeated use of “Come!” expresses the longing of all hearts for the Divine Messiah.

In these final days before Christmas, we suggest that you pray and meditate on these promises of the coming of the Christ Child. Set aside all the busyness of this season. Focus on Christ and be filled with hope that God is with you, both now and forever.

O Sapientia (O Wisdom)

O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!

All this also comes from the Lord Almighty, whose plan is wonderful, whose wisdom is magnificent.  Isaiah 28:29

O Adonai (O Lord)

O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!

For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our lawgiver, the Lord is our king; it is he who will save us.  Isaiah 33:22

O Radix Jesse (O Root of Jesse)

O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!

A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.  Isaiah 11:1

O Clavis David (O Key of David)

O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: come and free the prisoners of darkness!

I will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David; what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.  Isaiah 22:22

O Oriens (O Dayspring)

O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.  Isaiah 9:2

O Rex Gentium (O King of the Nations)

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Isaiah 9:6

O Emmanuel (O with Us is God)

O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God!

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.  Isaiah 7:14

May the God of all hope, fill you and your family to overflowing with joy at the coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord. God bless you, our dear brothers and sisters in Christ.