This Is Love

Song Meaning

“This Is Love” immediately sets a scene of immense sacrifice. A divine figure, the “King of glory,” willingly leaves “Heaven's splendor” to be “born to die.” The lyrics frame this as the ultimate act of love. It's a declaration of profound, self-sacrificial devotion. The central tension here lies in the stark contrast between divine majesty and mortal vulnerability. The “Incarnate King” is not just born, but specifically “born to die,” a purpose underscored by the need “God and man to reconcile.” This isn't just a story; it's presented as a deliberate, costly act aimed at bridging a fundamental divide. The insistent repetition of “This is love, this is love” acts as a powerful anchor, defining every subsequent image and action. What truly elevates the piece, however, is the shift in the third stanza. After narrating celestial worship and humble shepherds, the lyrics pivot to a direct, intimate plea: “Come thou long expected Jesus.” This transition from historical narrative to personal invocation makes the abstract concept of divine love feel immediate and deeply personal. This blend of grand narrative and personal address makes the lyrics incredibly effective. The initial descriptions of “Heaven's splendor” and “Angel voices” establish a cosmic scale, yet the repeated line about choosing to “make your home in us” grounds this vastness in an intimate, individual experience.