One of the things that makes Christmas so memorable is the hymns and carols. The most familiar Christmas carols become part of the tradition for Christians across denominations (and are sometimes even sung by non-Christians). While such hymns can be beneficial for Christians, they sometimes focus on things that are more imaginative than factual (Was it really a silent night? Were the cattle really lowing? Did snow really lay on the ground? Did a little drummer boy really show up?).
But there are some Christmas hymns that express the significance of the nativity of our Savior in profound and beautiful ways. I encourage you to take time in the next week to page through a hymnal and just read the hymns. Ponder the truths expressed in the poetry. Look up Bible references listed with they hymn, if your hymnal includes them, like Christian Worship Hymnal does.
Here is a hymn that is not new. It was written by one of the most prolific Lutheran hymnwriters ever, Pastor Paul Gerhardt (1607-1676). Note its stark but profound simplicity, as it focuses on the treasures we have in heaven through the Christ born at Bethlehem:
1. O Jesus Christ, your manger is
my paradise at which I am reclining.
For there, O Lord, we find the Word
made flesh for us — your grace is brightly shining.
2. He whom the sea and wind obey
comes down to serve the sinner in great meekness.
Now God’s own Son with us is one
and joins us and our children in our weakness.
3. Dear Christian friend, on him depend;
be of good cheer and let no sorrow move you.
For God’s own Child in mercy mild
joins you to him — how greatly God must love you!
4. Ponder again what glory then
the Lord will give you for your earthly sadness.
The angel host can never boast
of greater glory, greater bliss or gladness.
5. The world may hold her wealth and gold;
but you, my heart, keep Christ as your true treasure.
To him hold fast until at last
a crown is yours and honor in full measure.
Christian Worship Hymnal #342 (text copyright 1941 Concordia publishing house)
Here’s a blog by a fellow pastor with a few notes about this hymn. Here’s a recording of the hymn sung by the Martin Luther College choir.
Here are the readings and hymns planned for use at Riverview Lutheran Church, Appleton, WI, next Sunday, December 26:
- Readings: Isaiah 50:4-9; Hebrews 2:10-18; Luke 2:41-52
- Hymns: to be determined
May God bless your growth in faith, as you meditate on his Word and celebrate your Savior’s birth this week!
Your brother in Christ,
Pastor Wagner
Together in the Word 