DECEMBER 2008

I love the music of Christmas! I am aware that that is a joy shared by many people. I’m one of those who likes to listen to Christmas music in the middle of summer and plans what I’ll listen to each day as we approach and then enter into the holiday season. I must admit, that my musical tastes are very eclectic. A fair amount of my Christmas CD collection includes recordings of from the 13th through the 17th centuries, but you’ll also hear Bing Crosby, Al Jarreau, and Barry Manilow singing familiar favorites of the season.

What is it that makes Christmas music so special? Is it hearing the sounds of familiar songs that evoke images in our mind’s eye of Christmases past? Is it the fact that so much music of Christmas is beautifully written and interpreted in so many ways that everyone can connect to some aspect of this season of joy?

Perhaps the main reason that Christmas music is so enjoyed is that God has made us to sing! The story of God coming to earth wrapped in human flesh is so rich and full of meaning that words alone can’t portray all the depth of emotion and wonder of God’s love. Music helps make the story personal.

Certain carols remind me of the mystery of the Incarnation and cause me to pause in awe and wonder when I reflect on the greatness of God and His incredible love. Other songs make me want to celebrate, just like the angels did when they sang on that first Christmas night, “glory to God in the highest!” Still other Christmas songs pull me back to my childhood and youth, and bring back memories of time with family members, now celebrating Christmas in heaven.

Let me encourage you to fill your home and heart with the sounds of Christmas this year. Don’t cry “Humbug!” when you hear the familiar songs of the season in the mall or on the radio 24/7. Embrace it. Enjoy it! Sing a new song to the Lord every day and thank Him for His inexpressible gift! (2 Corinthians 9:15)

Pastor Leslie