O Holy Night

"O Holy Night" has been my favorite Christmas carol for years. I never tire of the music, and the lyrics never lose their poignancy. This song, arguably more than any other ever written, so perfectly and poetically proclaims the gospel--and I love that it unabashedly makes its way into every home, regardless of faith system, for one month every year. Every word was so carefully chosen to aptly describe the depravity and weariness of the world before Christ entered it and the hope, joy, and worth after his birth. The third verse is my favorite. The social worker in me so powerfully resonates with the promise that "in His name, all oppression shall cease." I long for that day, when love and peace infuse every living cell on this earth. Listen to Josh sing it as he so beautifully does, and may the message bring meaning to your Christmas season as it does to mine each year.

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,

It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth.

Long lay the world in sin and error pining,

'Til He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels' voices!

O night divine, O night when Christ was born;

O night divine, O night, O night Divine.

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,

With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.

So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,

Here come the wise men from Orient land.

The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;

In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger,

Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!

Behold your King, Behold your King.

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.

Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,

His power and glory evermore proclaim.

His power and glory evermore proclaim.