This composition is an arrangement of three texts that are traditionally sung to the tune of In Humility Our Savior.  Two of the texts were written by Charles Wesley who lived in the 1700s and became famous for providing lyrical inspiration for many Methodist hymns.  

Come Thou Long Expected Jesus provides the text of the first verse. which speaks of the promise and hope in Christ that has existed since the foundation of the world was laid.  

Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, also by Wesley, provides the text for much of the second verse, and tell of the condescension of Christ, fullfilment of prophecy and His atonement.  

The text of verse three comes mostly from the familiar hymn In Humility Our Savior and describes our responsibility to learn, follow the Savior and endure to the end.  This verse ends with a representation of our death and resurrection.  

The fourth and final verse begins with more text from Love, Divine, All Loves Excelling that places us at judgement bar of God where we will witness the true power of the atonment as our elder brother intercedes with the Father on our behalf.  This verse also represents us receiving the ultimate blessing of Exaltation.  

I believe that it is only in that moment, when we come to a full realization of the magnitude of what Christ's atonement enables, that we will ever come close to understanding what He did for us.  Our reaction in that moment can only be to "cast our crowns at His feet" and realize what true humility is.  

Charles Wesley got it right.  I have to believe that his life work is the result of the influence of the Spirit, at least in these texts.

The score and vocal parts are marked up with words that capture this progression.  I believe for a choir and accompanists to perform this as it was intended these words need to be in the forefront of their minds as they move through this piece.  

The piano accompaniment is optional and is a little in flux at the moment, but I do believe it adds to the presentation.  

FAIR WARNING: this work is probalby not suitable for sacrament meeting, despite the subject matter, unless your leadership has a very liberal attitude toward music.  I have a little angst with the guidance in the handbook about music that draws attention to itself, because that's exactly what music is intended to do.  The real question is does the music present a gospel message.  This music shouts one from the mountain tops and I am not ashamed of that.  Maybe someone here will find a suitable use for it.  If you do, please let me know what you think.  I would love to hear your feedback.