Advent Hymn Reflection #1

*Originally used in a Men’s Advent Study Group, Dec., 2021

Materials

Scripture

• Habakkuk 2:20 -- "But the Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him."

• Colossians 3:1-3 -- "If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."

• John 1:1-14 -- In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Hymn: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence

• Lyrics: Read Here

• Listen: Traditional-ish version | Contemporary version

• Learn: Background & Meaning

Reflection Guide

Hymns are a central source of Christian teaching. Good hymn writers weave together countless Scripture references and allusions, distilling the most complex, profound, mysterious truths into memorable poem. Thus, they serve not only as religious expression, but religious instruction as well. When we study their words as a spiritual discipline, our singing is edified by our understanding! Use this reflection guide to get started.

1. One verse at a time, slowly reflect on the words of the hymn

2. Paraphrase each verse in your own words -- jotting this down on paper will help!

3. Write down any questions you have about the hymn, or confusing terms and phrases

4. Write down any passages of Scripture that come to mind as you read the hymn

5. Write down what the hymn says about us, i.e., what we do, say, think, receive (this will help you think about personal application)

6. Lastly, try to summarize each verse in just 3 words or fewer. (Example: I might summarize verse 1 as "Silent awe")

Reflection Questions

1. How does the hymn unpack the meaning of John 1:1-14? Consider themes such as Jesus' eternality; His incarnation; light and darkness; humanity's response to Jesus, etc.

2. The hymn begins with a firm call to silence, but ends with a burst of ceaseless shouting. Why the change?

3. We live on earth, and God lives in Heaven. Obviously! But this hymn emphasizes a switch: our minds set on heaven, and Christ descending to earth. How does Christmas eternally change our "homes", both for us and for God?

4. The battle of light and darkness is a common theme in pop-culture. I think of LOST, Star Wars, etc. Based on the hymn and John 1, what makes Jesus uniquely able to conquer darkness? What darkness in the world do you especially long to be overcome?