Adagio y Villancico
Carol in an Ancient Style
Este es el tiempo en que llegas
Jose Luis Blanco Vega, S.J.
Based on Matthew 25:1-13
Music by Leo Nestor (1948-2019)
Lyrics – Translation paraphrase by Leo Nestor
Now is the time of your coming,
Oh, bridegroom, here without warning.
You invite those who keep vigil,
while leaving behind those who slumber.
Maidens come singing to meet you,
young maidens with verdant branches,
and bearing lamps which are brimming,
brimming with clear, copious oil.
See how the foolish ones knock upon
the doors which lead to your banquet.
Hear how they cry in the darkness
with eyes which never shall see you.
See, we are watchful and ready,
Oh, bridegroom, awaiting your coming;
our waiting hearts keeping vigil;
hearts watch while eyes drift in slumber.
This is the time of your coming,
Oh, bridegroom, here without warning.
You invite those who keep vigil,
while leaving behind those who slumber.
Grant us a place at your table,
Oh, Love, who comes in the night time.
Before the daybreak gives end to night
and banquet doors close in silence.