Advent is a season of reflecting on Christ’s first advent as recorded in the Gospels, and of expectant waiting for Christ’s second advent. We are in the midst of the “already-not yet” period, having experienced the kingdom but awaiting its consummation. This is perfectly summarized in Wesley’s familiar Christmas tune.

Oft in Sorrow has endured through the centuries, giving Christians a song to sing in times of struggle and sadness. We need songs of celebration to sing on mountaintops, yes, but we also need songs that teach us to continue on in the battle of faith when we are in a valley. Oft in Sorrow is a hymn for such times.

Written in 2011 by Doug Plank and Bob Kauflin of Sovereign Grace Music, Show Us Christ focuses on the power of Christ as revealed in the word of God to save sinners.

The song is an invitation for the congregant to look at, or “come behold” the wonder of the various components of the gospel, which has made salvation available for fallen humanity.

Penned by Martin Luther during the throes of the Protestant Reformation, A Mighty Fortress is Our God quickly became the “battle hymn” of the Reformers’ cause.

This hymn was written by Joachim Neander in 1680 and translated into English by Catherine Winkworth in 1863.