To you is the song …

As our choir has been preparing to sing Carol of Joy by Eileen Barry this year, I have been touched by her lyrics. At first, all I of my concentration was on learning the music, so I did not catch the beautiful message.

While rehearsing the other day, these words really sunk deep into my heart:

Oh fearful world, to you is the song—
Peace with your God, and pardon for wrong!
Tidings for sinners, burdened and bound–
A carol of joy!
A Savior is found!

“Earth wrapped in sorrow, lift up your eyes!
“Thrill to the chorus filling the skies!
“Look up sad hearted–witness God’s love!
“Join in the carol swelling above!”

Along with all of the great things about mortality, it also brings some bad news into our lives … we will all die, and we will all struggle with weakness and sin. The good news that the angel brought on that incredible night in Bethlehem so long ago was that, unto you (each of us) is born this day in the city of David a Savior (not just a baby) who is Christ the Lord. And He can fix both parts of the bad news!

In my mind’s eye, I could see the heavens opened with choirs of angels singing praises while the shepherds watched their flocks by night. I had been wondering what our Christmas card would be this year … I didn’t wonder anymore! Hope you enjoy this painting and I hope the message of hope and peace permeates your homes this Christmas season with a Carol of Joy!