There have been forecasts for weeks now about the possibility of snow. We expect it, prepare for it. Then it doesn’t come. But this time, it came. In fact, according to records in Portland, Oregon, this snowfall was the second heaviest snowfall in one day on record. Ten and one-half inches.

Our world stopped. Meetings were cancelled. Roads were closed. We needed to stay home. Some people were without power. We were fortunate that we were warm and cozy in our home.

Our lives are like that. Routines continue. And then, something happens. An unpredicted snowstorm comes upon us. What do we do? Are we prepared?

Most days, my hubby and I work through the One Year Book of  Hymns. This week, we came across one we didn’t know, written in 1597. There was a plague that hit the town and people were dying and a pastor, Philipp Nicolai, wrote this hymn during those trying times. We don’t experience plagues such as this pastor lived, but we know about disasters and earthquakes–and sometimes storms out of the Arctic.

“At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!

8 The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’

9 “‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’

10 “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut (Matthew 25:6, 8-10).

Pastor Nicolai must have been inspired by the passage above, and most likely, longed for Christ’s return to remove them from the terrible plague. Here’s the first verse of the hymn, reminding those who believe in Jesus Christ and his return:

Wake, awake, for night is flying!

The watchmen on the heights are crying;

Midnight hears the welcome voices,

And at the thrilling cry rejoices;

“Come forth, ye virgins, night is past!

The Bridegroom comes; awake,

Your lamps with gladness take; Alleluia!

And for His marriage feast prepare,

For you must go to meet Him there.” 

For more on the words, here’s the link: https://www.hymnsandcarolsofchristmas.com/Hymns_and_Carols/wake_awake_for_night_is_flying.htm

Christ hasn’t returned for his people yet. But it is closer then it was when this hymn was written. Are you ready?

“Lord Jesus, please help us be ready for Your return. We know it is closer than it was yesterday. Maranatha! Come quickly! Amen.”

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