As Christmas approaches, the air fills with familiar melodies—some cheerful, some solemn—all reminding us of the season’s spirit. Christmas music can be more than just a collection of songs; it is a profound expression of faith, tradition, and the theology of the birth of Christ. It carries with it a sacred story that transcends the festive cheer of the season and draws us into the very heart of what Christmas is all about—God choosing to come to us in the birth of the Savior.
Traditional Christmas carols, like “O Little Town of Bethlehem”, “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” , and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” offer more than just entertainment. They communicate the essence of Christian theology: the miracle of the incarnation, the peace brought by Christ’s arrival, and the joy of salvation. Each note and lyric is a reminder that Christmas is not merely a time for giving gifts or gathering with loved ones, though these are important. It is, first and foremost, a time to remember that God became man to dwell among us. In “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” we hear the longing of the people of Israel for a Messiah, and in “Away in a Manger,” we find the humble birth of that Messiah in a stable. These songs anchor us in the story of redemption, reminding us that Christmas is about hope fulfilled and peace brought to a world in turmoil.
- When I sing these hymns, I am not just remembering an event in history, but I am joining with the whole Christian tradition in worship and adoration. These songs help me focus on the true meaning of the season, shifting my attention away from the distractions that often accompany it.
In contrast, pop culture holiday songs through the years, like “Deck the Halls” or “All I Want for Christmas Is You”, are often without the same depth and significance. While these songs may be catchy and fun, they rarely point to anything beyond the materialistic aspects of the season. They focus on us; our festivities, our relationships and fleeting emotions, without considering the eternal truths of the gospel. They certainly have their place, but they don’t call us to reflect on God’s love for humanity, which is the very reason for the season.
Traditional hymns and carols connect me with the sacred story of Christ’s birth and invite me to enter into worship. They point beyond the season’s festivities to the core of the Christian faith—the miraculous gift of God becoming flesh. This season, while we sing carols that we’ve repeated for many years, let’s not miss the opportunity to hear their lyrics with fresh ears. Let’s allow ourselves a moment to recall that God, in His infinite love, chose to be born as one of us to save us from our sins. And let’s join with the angels of heaven singing, “Glory to our newborn King!”
