Sing Praise Forever
I will sing of the steadfast love of the Lord, forever;
with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations. Psalm 89:1
It was Christmas Eve, but my grandfather’s hospital room lacked any indication of Christmas cheer. After a long journey of complicated health issues, his body and spirit were weak. In an effort to lighten the mood, my family began singing traditional Christmas carols.
What happened next is etched in my heart forever. From his hospital bed, his humble voice joined us. As we sang It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, tears rolled down his cheek, and he attempted to smile. “You wouldn’t let me forget Christmas,” he declared. Indeed, we wouldn’t.
There in that sterile hospital room, not a decoration in sight, the significance of Christmas came through voices joining in carols declaring God’s truth.
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices - Jesus’ birth introduced hope to a weary world.
Let every heart prepare Him room - our heart is His home, is there room there for Him?
Peace on earth, goodwill to men, from heaven’s all-gracious King - He is our source of peace, bringing goodwill to those who love Him.
God sent us salvation that blessed Christmas morn - the Messiah was born, confirming God’s plan for salvation.
Throughout scripture, music is an integral part of worship. The entire book of Psalms is a book of songs used for generations to declare reverence, thanksgiving, and lament. In Revelation, we find angels worshipping the Lord in song for eternity. (Revelation 5: 9-10) James 5:13 encourages, “Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.”
Some people may consider singing Christmas carols as frivolous, perhaps even believing that traditional carols are boring and outdated. However, the history and lyrics of traditional carols prove otherwise. They are a powerful testimony, a reminder of the details and significance of Christ’s birth.
As the years pass by, whatever our Christmas season may bring, we can lift our voices and declare God’s faithfulness to all generations. Through sorrow and joy, blessings and struggle, we can lift our voices and “sing of the steadfast love of the Lord, forever” (Psalm 89:1)
Father, thank you for the gift of music and the way it penetrates my heart and declares your truth. Help me remember to sing of Your unchanging love in every circumstance. Amen.