And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. – Luke 2:13-14
"Joy to the World!” “Silent Night!” “The First Noel!” These are songs we sing at Christmastime, and their words are meant to bring love and warmth to the season, but what impact do carols really have on us?
On December 24, 1953, these beautiful carols meant a great deal to one young man who was stationed in Seoul, Korea, in the service of his country. In the late afternoon of that day, he was a lone figure, bundled in a warm parka, strolling near the water’s edge. He was totally lost in thoughts of home: Christmas Eve meant Christmas dinner. Who would be there? Then there was the church Christmas program by the Sunday school children, and the Christmas concert by the orchestra and choir. As the weather grew colder, he buried his hands deeper into his pockets, pulled the fur-lined collar around his ears and felt lonelier than he had ever been in his entire life.
As he began walking back toward the barracks, he heard strains of, “Hark, The Herald Angels Sing.” For a short moment, he thought maybe the Lord had sent a host of angels to minister to him on this lonely Christmas Eve. However, looking up above his head, he noticed a small airplane circling the compound with sounds of carols emanating from its loud speakers.
The bitter cold coming off the icy water and the misery of being alone so far from home were all gone. You see, on that late afternoon so long ago, he believed that he not only heard the angels singing, but he felt them singing!
Are the carols just part of your Christmas ritual, or are they a celebration for you? The Spirit of God meets with us in a special way through music, especially at Christmastime. May you let the music of Christmas warm your soul and heart this season.