Merry Christmas

As a lover of Christmas music of all kinds, I like to think I'm pretty well versed (no pun intended) in traditional carols. However, at the Christmas Eve service last night I was struck by the richness of the lyrics of some of the lesser known verses of common carols. This one especially caught my attention.

What Child is this who, laid to rest On Mary's lap is sleeping? Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherds watch are keeping?

[CHORUS] This, this is Christ the King, Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing; Haste, haste, to bring Him laud, The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Okay...so we all know this part. One of my favorites.

Why lies He in such mean estate, Where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christians, fear, for sinners here The silent Word is pleading.

[CHORUS]

Okay...so we hear this verse occasionally.

Nails, spear shall pierce Him through, The cross be borne for me, for you. Hail, hail the Word made flesh, The Babe, the Son of Mary.

[CHORUS]

Wow...the entire gospel, right here in this hymn. I LOVE this verse.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh, Come peasant, king to own Him; The King of kings salvation brings, Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

[CHORUS]

Raise, raise a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Hope you have enjoyed the season!