Dear Friends,
Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation, a time to remember the promises of God and the
arrival of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It’s a time when we prepare our hearts to receive Him again, just
as Mary and Joseph prepared to welcome the newborn King into the world.
One hymn that beautifully captures the wonder and humility of Jesus’ incarnation is “Thou Didst
Leave Thy Throne.” This hymn has become especially meaningful to me this year, thanks to our
talented organist, Bob Swope, who recently introduced it to me. Bob’s love for this hymn and its
message inspired me to learn more about its history and significance, and I am grateful for the gift
of his musical ministry.
“Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne” was written in 1864 by Emily Elizabeth Steele Elliott, a devout
Anglican who composed hymns to teach children about the truths of Scripture. She specifically
wrote this hymn for Advent and Christmas services, capturing the profound mystery of Christ’s
incarnation: the King of Kings leaving His heavenly throne to dwell among us in humility.
Each verse reflects a different stage of Jesus’ life and ministry, highlighting the contrast between the
glory He deserved and the rejection He often received. The opening verse focuses on His birth:
“Thou didst leave Thy throne and Thy kingly crown,
When Thou camest to earth for me;
But in Bethlehem’s home was there found no room
For Thy holy nativity.”
This imagery reminds us that Jesus, the Creator of the universe, was born into a world that had no
place for Him. Yet through His humility and sacrifice, He made room for us.
The refrain is a prayerful response to this incredible gift:
“O come to my heart, Lord Jesus,
There is room in my heart for Thee.”
As we sing this hymn on the first Sunday of Advent, let us reflect on how we make room—or fail to
make room—for Jesus in our lives. Is there space for Him in our daily routines, our priorities, and
our relationships?
I’m grateful to Bob for introducing this hymn to me. It has been a beautiful reminder of the heart of
Advent: making room for Jesus in our lives and looking forward with hope and joy to His promised
return.
Grace and peace to you,
Pastor Beau