Being a professional singer, this time of year means that I do plenty
of running around to take advantage of the opportunities to sing for
pay. There are parties, concerts, caroling through streets and malls,
and of course church services. It can easily become drudgery, and feel
too much like work--you know: “another day, another dollar.” And that
feeling can creep in and sometimes take the joy out of the season and
spoil Christmas. It even happens to me sometimes, but I try to stay
connected to the messages and sentiments of the text and music that I
sing. There is a great deal of meaning to be found in Christmas music.
There is one number that sticks out from among the stack of music that
I have to sing this Christmas. From the very first time I sang through
it, I thought of Ennis spending that first Christmas alone after Jack
had left this world. I also thought about the amazing comfort that
having faith can offer in a time of sadness and pain. Below are the
lyrics and a link to video of the song being performed by a college choir.
CAROL OF JOY
Lyrics by Eileen Berry
Music by Dan Forrest
Green leaves are fallen, withered and dry;
Brief sunset fading, dim winter sky;
Lengthening shadows, dark closing in;
Then through the stillness, carols begin.
O fallen world, to you is the song!
Death holds you fast, and night tarries long.
Jesus is born, your curse to destroy;
Sweet to your ears, a carol of joy!
Pale moon ascending, solemn and slow;
Cold, barren hillside shrouded in snow.
Deep empty valley, veiled by the night;
Hear angel music,
Hear angels hopeful and bright.
O 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!
O friendless world, to you is the song!
All heaven’s joy to you may belong!
You who are lonely, laden, forlorn;
O fallen world,
O fearful world,
O friendless world,
Now unto you a Savior is born!
Wishing you all a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year!!
Milo