O Radix Jesse
O Root of Jesse, standing as an ensign before the peoples, before whom all kings are mute, to whom the nations will do homage:
Come quickly to deliver us.
Reading: John 3:22–36
All kings of the earth are without speech. They are mute. The Root of Jesse springs forth out of heaven, out of the Blessed Virgin’s womb. Neither do the nations of the earth say a word. They pay Him homage in the earthly forms of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, but it is He who gives them all things. He gives eternal life to all who believe in Him. Whoever receives His testimony sets His seal to this, that God is true. He comes to deliver kings, foreigners, and servants from their sin. He gives the Spirit without measure.
Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, ruler of heaven and earth, pour out your Spirit upon us so that we would be preserved until that day when You come to bring us into Your eternal kingdom; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Hymn LSB 357:4
O come, Thou Branch of Jesse’s tree,
Free them from Satan’s tyranny
That trust Thy mighty pow’r to save,
And give them vict’ry o’er the grave.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel!
(Thomas Van Hemert, Sem IV)
