Written by Charles Wesley in 1744, this hymn first appeared in the 1745 “Hymns for the Nativity of Our Lord”.

Listen for the story behind the song.

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Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus

Text: Charles Wesley, 1707-1788

Music: Rowland H. Pritchard

Come, thou long expected Jesus,

born to set thy people free;

from our fears and sins release us,

let us find our rest in thee.

Israel’s strength and consolation,

hope of all the earth thou art;

dear desire of every nation,

joy of every longing heart.

Born thy people to deliver,

born a child and yet a King,

born to reign in us forever,

now thy gracious kingdom bring.

By thine own eternal spirit

rule in all our hearts alone;

by thine all sufficient merit,

raise us to thy glorious throne.