Verses on Various Occasions · Chapter
CLII: Advent—Matins explained
A hymn for Advent Matins invoking the Supernal Word, Christ, who came from the Eternal Father to aid a distressed world.
What happens
A hymn for Advent Matins invoking the Supernal Word, Christ, who came from the Eternal Father to aid a distressed world. The speaker prays for divine enlightenment and love to detach from earthly things, to be ready for the final judgment, to escape eternal punishment, and to attain the bliss of heaven. The hymn concludes with a doxology to the Trinity.
Themes in this chapter
Sin and Redemption
The hymn contrasts the sinner's doom with the call to the just, emphasizing redemption through Christ.
The Church and Tradition
The hymn follows the liturgical structure of Advent Matins, reflecting the Church's traditional preparation for Christ's coming.
Characters to notice
- Christ
Addressed as the Supernal Word proceeding from the Father, who came to aid the world.
- Father, Son, and Paraclete
Invoked in the concluding doxology as the triune God to whom glory is given.
- Sinner
Referenced as the one whose doom is fixed at the judgment seat.
- Lord
Implored to enlighten and set on fire the spirits of the faithful.
Key passages
“Supernal Word, proceeding from The Eternal Father’s breast, And in the end of ages come, To aid a world distrest;”
Christ, the divine Word from God the Father, came at the end of time to help a troubled world.
Describes the incarnation of Christ as a response to human distress.
“Enlighten, Lord, and set on fire Our spirits with Thy love, That, dead to earth, they may aspire And live to joys above.”
Lord, illuminate and ignite our souls with your love so that we may die to worldly things and seek heavenly joys.
A prayer for spiritual transformation and detachment from earthly concerns.
“Safe from the black and yawning lake Of restless, endless pain, We may the face of God partake, The bliss of heaven attain.”
May we be spared from the terrible, unending torment of hell and instead enjoy the presence of God and the happiness of heaven.
Expresses the hope of salvation and the fear of damnation.