I cannot tell you how many times I’ve sung “O Holy Night,” or heard it on the radio or overhead in the mall. The words are ones I know so well that I rarely even think about them as I sing.
But this year, they are striking me anew. As someone who loves the Christmas season and all its festive cheer, but also reveres the holy anticipation of Advent, I wondered if maybe this time of year would be what I’ve been looking for lately–that elusive “God feeling.” Because despite the commercialism that is so easy to get swept up in, there is still something sacred about this season.
Photo Credit: Flickr User ItzaFineDay, Creative Commons
I can’t say that God has showed up in a boisterous, ruckus fashion, clanging his way back into my life with shouts of “I’m here! I’ve been here! Can’t you see me?” In still, small ways though, I have been noticing–and appreciating–his goodness, and the words of “O Holy Night” so beautifully express my, and the world’s, longing for more.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
This year especially, it seems like the world is weary, on edge, waiting for all to be made right–and the song speaks to that as well. Because Jesus wasn’t born just to be a King and a Savior, though he’s those things too. He’s something much closer.
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger…
Even in the midst of the messes of our lives and of this world, at this time of year, I’m reminded of why this faith I hold so imperfectly, sometimes bewilderingly, but dearly–matters. I’m reminded why Jesus matters. He matters because he brings hope to weariness and brokenness and trials. Because he is making all things new, and reminding me afresh of the truth and beauty of these words.
Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
Til next time…
~Brianna!~
p.s. Are there any Christmas carols that are striking you anew lately?
The Art of Becoming 
Thanks for sharing this! I heard this song today and thought of your words 🙂 Lately, Joy to the World has been hitting me all fresh and worshippy – possibly the Christmas hymn I’ve known for the longest, but I’ve been digging in to some advent reading, and the whole idea that the literal earth will rejoice when Christ returns, that literally heaven and nature will sing, rocks will cry out, the fields will rejoice – how have I been missing it all these years?!