Monday's musings: A Carol of Joy

During the holiday season it is all too easy to get wrapped up in the gift giving (no pun intended). Amid all the hustle and the bustle of tree decorating, treat making, and ugly sweater partying, we can easily forget the reason for the season, if you will. 

That being said, I wanted to share something that has helped me, each Christmas season, to remember the birth of our precious Savior.

Once upon a time, I was in the A Capella choir at the University of Utah. For our Holiday concert, we sang A Carol of Joy. Never before had the message of Christ's purpose- His love, His hope, and His peace- been so  clear to me. Christ was born for me; to love, guide, and ultimately, to save me. No moment in history has had a greater impact on my life than the birth of this precious baby. 

THAT is the reason to celebrate during this Christmas season.

And so, if you find yourself beginning to forget...

Lyrics:

Green leaves all fallen, withered and dry;
Brief sunset fading, dim winter sky.
Lengthening shadows, 
Dark closing in...

Then, through the stillness, carols begin!

Oh fallen world, to you is the song--
Death holds you fast and night tarries long.

Jesus is born, your curse to destroy!
Sweet to your ears, a carol of Joy!

Pale moon ascending, solemn and slow;
Cold barren hillside, shrouded in snow;
Deep, empty valley veiled by the night;
Hear angel music--hopeful and bright!

Oh fearful world, to you is the song--
Peace with your God, and pardon for wrong!
Tidings for sinners, burdened and bound--

A carol of joy!

A Saviour is found!

Earth wrapped in sorrow, lift up your eyes!
Thrill to the chorus filling the skies!
Look up sad hearted--witness God's love!
Join in the carol swelling above!

Oh friendless world, to you is the song!
All Heaven's joy to you may belong!
You who are lonely, laden, forlorn--
Oh fallen world!
Oh friendless world!

To you,

A Saviour is born!