Sleepers Awake

Some of you may be familiar with the hymn "Sleepers, Awake" written by Phillipp Nicolai in the 16th century.  The song appears in many hymnals throughout the centuries.  You may also be familiar with the Bach cantata of the same (or similar) name.  

The words of a more recent translation are posted below.  You may also want to read the article linked below the read of Nicolai's story surrounding the penning of the lyrics.

You may choose to listen to a portion (less than 5 minutes) of Bach's cantata.  

What emotions does the music evoke from you?  What sense do you gather of Christ's return? 

"Sleepers, Awake"

“Sleepers, wake!” A voice astounds us,
the shout of rampart-guards surrounds us:
“Awake, Jerusalem, arise!”
Midnight’s peace their cry has broken,
Their urgent summons clearly spoken:
“The time has come, O maidens wise!
Rise up, and give us light;
The Bridegroom is in sight.
Alleluia!
Your lamps prepare and hasten there,
That you the wedding feast may share.”

Zion hears the watchman singing;
Her heart with joyful hope is springing,
She wakes and hurries through the night.
Forth he comes, her bridegroom glorious
In strength of grace, in truth victorious:
Her star is risen, her light grows bright.
Now come, most worthy Lord,
God’s Son, Incarnate Word,
Alleluia!
We follow all and heed your call
To come into the banquet hall.

Lamb of God, the heavens adore you;
Let saints and angels sing before you,
As harps and cymbals swell the sound.
Twelve great pearls, the city’s portals:
Through them we stream to join the immortals
As we with joy your throne surround.
No eye has known the sight,
No ear heard such delight:
Alleluia!
Therefore we sing to greet our King;
For ever let our praises ring.