THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT – DECEMBER 20, 2025
ADVENT 2025
Third Week of Advent
December 20, 2025
A Hymn of Advent
Prepare the Way, O Zion
(This hymn, “Prepare the way, O Zion,” was written by Frans Mikael Franzen from Finland/Sweden in the 19th century. The text was set to a Swedish tune, “Bereden vag for Herran”, already 150 years old by then. “Zion” is mentioned in all three verses. First, that literally refers to a mountain near Jerusalem, and figuratively to the people of God, or the city where God dwells. In the New Testament, “Zion” refers to the Kingdom of God for which we wait in Advent expectation and hope. It also refers to the heavenly city descending from heaven, the New Jerusalem which we long for and wait for in anticipation for the Wedding Feast of the Lamb as the Bride of Christ. (Notes from Trinity Episcopal Church Upperville, VA))
John 3:31-36 (NRSVUE)
The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks about earthly things. The one who comes from heaven is above all. 32 He testifies to what he has seen and heard, yet no one accepts his testimony. 33 Whoever has accepted his testimony has certified[a] this, that God is true. 34 He whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. 35 The Father loves the Son and has placed all things in his hands. 36 Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever disobeys the Son will not see life but must endure God’s wrath.
Prepare the Way, O Zion
Prepare the way, O Zion
Your Christ is drawing near
Let every hill and valley
A level way appear
Greet One who comes in glory
Foretold in sacred story
Chorus:
O blest is Christ that came
In God’s most holy name
He brings God’s rule O Zion
He comes from heaven above
His rule is peace and freedom
And justice truth and love
Lift high your praise resounding
For grace and joy abounding
Fling wide your gates O Zion
Your Savior’s rule embrace
And tidings of salvation
Proclaim in every place
All lands will bow rejoicing
their adoration voicing Chorus
Prayer: God, our Creator, as we prepare to celebrate the gift of love you have given to each of us through the sacrifice and ministry of Jesus, may we in turn share your love with those we meet each day. We ask for the peace your presence gives us as we move forward in the days ahead. Amen.