I do not often have favorites. Of anything. My taste in most things change frequently. I mean, for 6 months I loved my ketchup, mustard, A1, and cheese sandwiches. Now, you couldn't pay me enough to eat that nastiness (in all fairness, I was in first grade when I was fond of that odd combo). However, I have somehow retained a favorite Christmas carol for the last 8 or so years (this must be a record): O Holy Night.
Sure, it’s not a surprising pick. I suspect many count this as their favorite Christmas song. While part of me is frustrated that my favorite song is so popular, I also understand why many are drawn to it. It has a beautiful melody, which requires a truly talented singer to really interpret the tune well. It also has some of the most rich and heart-stirring language found in the catalog of Christmas carols.
Long lay the world, in sin and error pining...
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices...
Yet, my favorite line undoubtedly is:
Chains shall he break, for the slave is our brother; and in his name all oppression shall cease.
I get chills when I get to that line. I find my heart stirring, a desire to proclaim "Amen!" This is the gospel, expressed beautifully. This is not just a belief I have, but the reality that has freed me. We all begin in the same condition - no one is above another. We have all been enslaved by sin.
Christ was long awaited by a tired and broken world. He of whom the prophecies foretold. And just when it seemed as though he never would show up, he was born. He brought freedom from sin and the hope of life anew. He was the gift we needed. I find such hope in those truthy lyrics.
What better response than to fall on our knees? Perhaps it is the only fitting response at times - bowed down, in awe of love. The loviest of lovey loves.
May you be reminded of his love this Christmas.
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