Best read as a whole. Subscribers please click above.
Ever thought much about “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear”? It’s never been my favorite, but Karen read the words and then sang it last night, and I paid closer attention. Turns out it’s an encouragement, a beckoning to stop and listen. These Christmas hymns are some of the most moving poetry out there, but they are so unfortunately familiar. I’ve decided to meditate more carefully on the words as I sing them this year.
Some of my favorite phrases:
“Long lay the world in sin and error pining, till He appeared and the soul felt its worth. A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices.” (O Holy Night)
“the dawn of redeeming grace” (Silent Night)
“Repeat the sounding joy.” (Joy to the World)
“Let loving hearts enthrone Him.” (What Child Is This?)
