Advent Devotional: December 11

December 11th, 2023
by Matt Tarr

O Little Town of Bethlehem

Scripture: Isaiah 7:10-18
Hymn: O Little Town of Bethlehem

Many of the Christmas hymns we sing today were originally written to teach little children to understand and remember the significance of the biblical account of Jesus' birth through song. "Silent Night," "Away in a Manger," and today's hymn, "O Little Town of Bethlehem," are among our favorites.

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie,
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary
And gathered all above,
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars together
Proclaim thy holy birth
And praises sing to God the King
And peace to men on earth.

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie,
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by.
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight.