1 Rejoice, rejoice, believers,
and let your lights appear!
The evening is advancing
and darker night is near.
The Bridegroom is arising
and soon he will draw nigh;
up, watch in expectation!
At midnight comes the cry.
2 The watchers on the mountain
proclaim the Bridegroom near;
go forth as he approaches,
with alleluias clear.
The marriage feast is waiting;
the gates wide open stand.
Arise, O heirs of glory:
the Bridegroom is at hand!
3 Our hope and expectation,
O Jesus, now appear;
arise, O Sun so longed for,
above this darkened sphere.
With hearts and hands uplifted,
we plead, O Lord, to see
the day of earth's redemption
that sets your people free!
