My absolute favorite Christmas song is “O Holy Night.”
I love it because it reminds me of just how amazing that night was when Christ was born. It was amazing for a number of reasons.
Of course it was amazing because of the way in which Jesus was conceived-through the Holy Spirit in the womb of a virgin. And it was amazing because it was the night in which God came down to earth in human form.
But there were even more reasons than these.
The prophecies said that the Christ was to be born in Bethlehem. Unfortunately, Mary wasn’t living in Bethlehem when she was due to give birth.
So, God worked through a pagan leader to ask for a census so that He could get Mary to Bethlehem at just the time when Jesus would be born.
The prophesies also said that people of all nations would come to worship this newborn king. But, how would people of other nations know where to find him if not for the star God created?
God used a pagan, evil man to make sure His Son got where He needed to be, and He used a star to lead people to the Christ-child.
That night was indeed special, wasn’t it?
Here are some of the lyrics from “O Holy Night.”
O Holy nightThe stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior’s birthLong lay the world in sin and error pining
Til He appeared and the soul felt it’s worthA thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious mornFall on your kneesO hear the angel voices
O night divine!
O night when Christ was born
I love the line above: “A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices.”
It was true back then…the world was weary.
There had been years without any new prophecies…years without any Word from the Lord. The Israelites were likely wondering if and when God was going to fulfill all the things He had promised.
The world is also weary now.
The holiday season can be a wonderful time, but it can also be a very sad time. Christmas reminds us of those who are missing from the celebrations.
The weary world first rejoiced when Jesus was born two thousand years ago, and it rejoices again today. Though Christmas can be difficult, there is still hope.
There’s hope because of that one night long ago…that holy night when Christ was born.
This version of “O Holy Night” sung by Josh Groban is beautiful. If you have a moment, it’s definitely worth the watch. (If you can’t view the video below in your feed, click on this link.)
What are some of your favorite lines from “O Holy Night”? Chime in with your thoughts.
My favorite line of this song is
Truly He taught us to love one another
His law is love and His gospel is peace
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother
And in His name all oppression shall cease
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name
I really love the part where it says that he taught us to love one another. Also, that his law is love and Gospel is peace.
Yes! I totally agree! I love those lines too:) Thank you for sharing your favorites.
“He knows our need, to our weakness He’s no stranger” hands down! I break down in tears every time….