Featured Listing: "O Antiphons"
(And this month's coupon code!)
Friends, it’s hard to believe that Advent is only three weeks away! The season of the Church calendar that begins in Advent and lasts through Epiphany is my favorite time of year, and I’m starting to get excited about sharing this season with my family and church, but also entering into special times of prayer and contemplation in my personal devotional time with God.1
The “O Antiphons” are an ancient part of Advent, calling out to Christ with titles like “O Wisdom” or “O Key of David,” with each antiphon highlighting a different attribute or role. If you've sung "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," you've already encountered the Antiphons; they form the verses of this beloved hymn. Dating back at least to the 6th century, these prayers were traditionally sung during evening prayer from December 17th to 23rd. They’re named for their opening “O” and are addressed to Jesus, each one asking Him to come with a specific blessing or gift.
Each antiphon focuses on a name of Jesus found in Scripture, like "O Wisdom" or "O King of Nations," and a need that humanity has that only He can fulfill. Together, they form a crescendo of anticipation that builds until Christmas Eve.
Using the O Antiphons devotionally can be done simply yet meaningfully. You could take one each day leading up to Christmas Eve, reflect on the title of Jesus it uses, and pray for that grace in your life. For example, on December 17, with “O Wisdom,” you might pray for guidance in a decision you’re facing. They can be beautiful additions to Advent, especially if you’re looking for ways to focus more on Jesus and the hope He brings as you approach Christmas.
I’ve just released a set of seven new images inspired by the O Antiphons. They are available for purchase from my Etsy shop. You can view the listing by Clicking Here.
While you’re at the shop, be sure to take advantage of this month’s coupon code available to newsletter subscribers like yourself and get 50% off any order of $50 or more! Here’s the coupon code: 50PERCENTNOV2024
You can also click on this link to automatically apply the coupon to your purchase.
I pray the upcoming Advent season would bring you closer to the heart of Father God and to His Incarnate Son, through the mighty power of the Holy Spirit.
The Lord be with you!
In addition to Scripture, prayer, and other devotions of the church, I’ll also be reading through Malcom Guite’s collection of poems, one for each day of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany, called Waiting on the Word.
(This is an affiliate link. If you click on the link and purchase the book, you’ll get it at the normal price, but I’ll receive a small commission from the sale.)