This year I have been particularly touched by the words of our Christmas hymns. I sang in a number of Christmas concerts and programs and teared up in every one as I was touched by the condescension of Christ to come in the most meek of circumstances to save us all from our sins.
The First Noel invigorates my soul when I rejoicingly sing "Noel! Noel! born is the King of Israel"
My ward choir director pleaded with us to recall when we have ourselves said this silent prayer in Away in a Manger: "be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay close by me forever, and love me, I pray"
And then what about the words in I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day?
"And in despair I bowed my head: 'There is no peace on earth,' I said, 'For hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, good will to men.' Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: 'God is not dead, nor doth he sleep'"
It seems like such an obvious thing to recognize that Christmas matters because Jehovah, the creator of worlds, came to earth as a helpless baby in the most meek of circumstances, because He loved us individually and wanted to thwart Satan's plan. But to me this year I have been overwhelmed by that simple reality, for it is the greatest reality of all.
I bought the Frank Sinatra christmas album just for "I heard the Bells on Christmas Day." It is fabulous
ReplyDeleteThank you for that. I love Christmas carols, but often neglect to notice the words. The Away in a Manger prayer is beautiful. I'll remember that next time I hear it.
ReplyDeleteMerry Christmas dear friend!
LIKE. Nope, LOVE.
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