advent: I Heard the Bells

I love the Christmas season. The colors, the decoration, the contagious excitement, the food--what's not to like? And even though Thanksgiving, which is also fabulous, hasn't rolled around yet, let's admit it--the Christmas songs are already playing in a lot of our houses.

But it's observing the Advent of Christ that gets me teary-eyed and choked up. That's the true source of the joy of this season. The promise of peace, the hope of redemption, the birth of the King Who came to save us all. As soon as I hear my favorite songs celebrating what Jesus came to do, my heart swells and the tears come.

Here's one of my favorites. Take time to look at these lyrics, and think about how they apply to the world today. I think it carries hope that we desperately need.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day 
Their old familiar carols play, 
And wild and sweet the words repeat 
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bowed my head: 
"There is no peace on earth," I said, 
"For hate is strong and mocks the song 
Of peace on earth, good will to men." 

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: 
"God is not dead, nor doth he sleep; 
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, 
With peace on earth, good will to men." 

Till, ringing singing, on its way, 
The world revolved from night to day, 
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime, 
Of peace on earth, good will to men!

God is not dead, nor doth He sleep. Can I get an "Amen"?!

Here's my favorite version of this song by Jane Monheit. Enjoy!


What are your favorite songs of this season?