Christmas Music

I have mentioned it before, but I thought I would preface this post by reiterating that I am a guitarist. I in no way claim to be an expert. I fall short in many ways, but I do enjoy playing. I love having the ability to have a one on one worship time with just Papa, my guitar and me.

That being said, music is a particular passion of mine. I am certain that I am not alone in being able to mark milestones in my life with certain songs. There are songs that have been my anchors in times of trial. There are tunes that have been celebratory anthems for the most joyous times in my life. Hearing some songs takes me back to exactly where I was when I heard them for the first time. It is amazing how much music is a part of our lives, mine especially.

I spent the morning putting the final touches on the Christmas decorations in my home. I made a cup of hot tea, put some Christmas music on to play and started hanging garland. Maybe it was because I was alone in the house. Perhaps I was just in a reflective mood because of the cooler weather. Whatever it was, Papa took those few minutes and really reminded me of the true importance of Christmas.

I like the creativity of some more modern interpretations of traditional Christmas carols. But, for me, nothing beats the classics. I love to hear Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, Burl Ives, etc. singing Christmas carols. This morning as I listened to Nat sing "O Holy Night" and "O Come All Ye Faithful" I pondered the tremendous importance of Christmas. I was reminded all over again of the depth of my Father's love.

I would posit that all too often we sing the words to Christmas music without even considering their meaning. They are so familiar that we let them roll over us without penetrating our hears. I would like to recommend that you take a few minutes as you decorate your tree, wrap gifts or just have a cup of coffee and listen to a few Christmas carols. As you listen, perhaps you may let your mind wonder in George Bailey fashion (It's a Wonderful Life) about what life would look like in your little corner of the world had Papa not given us the gift of salvation in His son, Jesus.

It really makes you appreciate "The First Noel" that took place on that "Silent Night" when the first call of "O Come All Ye Faithful" was sent forth.