Tag: Hark

Hark! The herald angels sing

Hail, the heav’n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail, the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings,
Ris’n with healing in His wings.
Mild He lays His glory by,
Born that man no more may die,
Born to raise the sons of earth,
Born to give them second birth

Hark! The herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King!” *

We don’t use the word hark so much these days. But I could benefit from listening more. One of the things I love about this time of year is that there are so many reminders, mainly through song, of the Prince of Peace.

Even those who are struggling with their faith.

They hear the songs all over the radio. They might catch a line here or there that gives them something to ponder. These hymns have some great messages tucked inside.

Hark!

There are so many amazing Christmas hymns that are broadcast all over the radio and in stores. I love that it is the background music but I also need to let the messages come to the forefront and penetrate my heart. Thinking about some of these hymns, verse by verse, helps them sink in just a little more. I love to read a verse and then find one thing that strikes me in that verse and ruminate on it.

Do you have a favorite Christmas hymn?

Come, Lord Jesus!
Liz

* Words written by Charles Wesley 1707-88

God and Sinners Reconciled

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Hark! The herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King;
Peace on earth and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!”
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With the angelic host proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem!” *

I enjoy listening to Christmas hymns and songs. When I hear Christmas music “out of season” (for me that is before Halloween), it is unusual, but not offensive. I love the familiarity of the songs and the reminders of what we are celebrating: the best songs call attention to the newborn King!

We are desperate for peace on Earth. Sometimes we are even desperate for peace in our homes. I think it is safe to say we all have something that is out of place or causes our heart to ache. It could be a strained relationship or a hope that is unfulfilled. And we seek peace — sometimes in places where peace cannot be found. Our peace can be compromised by what we have done and by what we have left undone. And yet God desires for us to be reconciled to Him so much that He has made the way, through Jesus. He is our Peace.

God providing a way for our peace and for sinners to be reconciled to Him is a pretty big deal. And singing the words (even if your heart struggles) feeds your spirit.

Thank you, Father, for providing peace and mercy through Christ. His birth ushers in our path for reconciliation to You. Let us make space for Your work to be done in and through us.

Come, Lord Jesus!
Liz

* Words written by Charles Wesley 1707-88