‘Everlasting Joy will be on their Faces’
(Isaiah 35:10)

The Late Leonard Cohen’s song ‘Hallelujah’ makes the claim that King David had found a secret chord which, when played, surprised and pleased even God.
The chorus consists of  one word ‘hallelujah’. It is sung seventeen times after each verse!

In Hebrew, the word ‘Hallelujah’ means to rejoice and praise God. It is an Advent song of expectation, celebration, mourning, regret and reconciliation.
It is about broken love and a true love remembered and/or mourned. It helps us find forgiveness and peace in the vicissitudes of our brokenness.
It is based on 1 Samuel 16:14–23 where God’s presence meets the dire failures of  the jealousy of King Saul, the lust of King David for Uriah’s wife and Samson’s blind tragic romances.
It is about new beginnings.

There have been over sixty recordings of this song from diverse singers and groups. In churches across the world, at baptisms, weddings, retreats and funerals I have heard it sung with exquisite expression and interpretation.
I have also cringed on hearing it massacred by others in pubs!

As an Advent word ‘Hallelujah’ can warm our hearts, excite our hopes and expectations as Christmas nears.

Come Lord Jesus