The Songs Of Christmas預覽

Inspired by Hillsong's "Born is the King"

The Christmas season is one that brings the full range of human experience. For many, it is filled with all the very best things in life – family, food, gifts and more. Yet for others, it is a season when financial stress, strained relationships, absence or disappointment can be intensified.

However, when the angel first announced the news of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds on that starry night in Bethlehem, the message was stunningly uncomplicated:

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2.10, NIV)

“Great joy for all the people” was no small claim on that first Christmas night, just as it is no small claim today. It was a promise given to people who faced real challenges that were very similar to the ones people face today. Jesus was the promise of joy that had long been prophesied and awaited.

Rejoice, O people of Zion!
Shout in triumph, O people of Jerusalem!
Look, your king is coming to you.
He is righteous and victorious,
yet He is humble, riding on a donkey—
riding on a donkey’s colt.
Zechariah 9.9 (NLT)

Today, the joyous Christmas message of Jesus, extended equally to all, is more relevant than ever. In a world where both joy and equality can be in short supply, Christmas proclaims the existence of a Saviour – the hope of all humankind – who freely offers salvation and eternal life to all that believe in Him.

How can our response to this great news be anything but likewise joy-filled? Let us, this day, take our gaze off the things of this earth and place it on to the source of our joy. Let us allow this message of joy for all of humankind to simplify the Christmas season for us. And let us allow our spirits to be compelled to lift up a sacrifice of praise to God – our own gift of gratitude extended heavenwards, in celebration of the Greatest Gift of all time.

So lift up your voice and sing out His praise
It's Christmas
Born is the King, rejoice in the day
It's Christmas

Make a joyful sound
It's Christmas
Let His praise resound
It's Christmas

Goodwill to all the earth
And peace divine
All of the earth rejoice
It's Christmas time
It's Christmas time

Hear Hillsong's "Born Is The King" here.