Fling Wide the Door

I wanted to share a reflection on Luther College's annual Christmas at Luther celebration, which I attended last weekend in Decorah, Iowa.

This year's theme was "Fling Wide the Door." The text, originally written in 1642 and set to music in 1704, was translated by my former professor at Luther Seminary, Gracia Grindal. (Professor Grindal is also known for penning the third verse of the classic Advent hymn, "Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming.")

The translation reads:

Fling wide the door, un­bar the gate;

The King of glo­ry comes in state;

The Lord of lords and King of kings,

The Sav­ior of the world who brings

His great sal­va­tion to the earth.

So raise a shout of ho­ly mirth

And praise our God and Lord,

Creator, Spir­it Word.

As we continue our journey through Advent, let us prepare to welcome with gladness all who will join us in worship and in our homes.

See you in church!!