Hark the Herald Angels…say what?
Christmas songs–the closer to Christmas that we get, the more meaningful the songs become, especially the hymns. Unless of course the lyrics make no sense. Tonight, we’re going to de-code some of the words to Hark the Herald Angels Sing. Most of it makes sense–it goes along with Luke 2:8-20 when the angels appear to the shepherds. But some of the words are a bit older and may sound confusing.
Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.” Joyful, all ye nations, rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With th’ angelic host proclaim, “Christ is born in Bethlehem.”
Mercy mild–mercy can be used for forgiveness, reconcile means to fix a bad relationship–which God did for us. The angelic host is just the big amount of angels. It’s really about God saving us sinners and showing us mercy.
Born that man no more may die: Born to raise the son of earth, Born to give them second birth.
Jesus was born so that we will not die–yes, people do die still, but we are saved from a forever death in that God has a place for us in Heaven. We are sons of earth (in the creation story, man is formed from dust), God raises us to a new level and gives us second birth when we reach Heaven.
When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!
2 Corinthians 5:17 (TLB)
Dear Lord, Thank you for saving me and having a place for me in Heaven with you. You have saved me, even though I am imperfect, you love me completely. Thank you. Amen.
