Christmas Carol Contemplations: God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

The world was dark and they were watching for danger in the night when suddenly the night was ablaze with a terrible light! They were terrified.  

"Don’t be afraid. I’m here to announce a great and joyful event that is meant for everybody, worldwide..."

And with those words their world was changed forever.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/pemq/6300016658/in/photostream

I've always liked this carol but felt a bit confused by it. The words themselves speak of finding rest and peace but the melody is anything but peaceful. Yet still I find myself drawn to this song with it's seemingly discordant lyrics and tune.

Listening to the Pentatonix version with its rapid progression and driving voices I am reminded of when the angels suddenly appeared in the dark lonely night to some shepherds watchful for danger. Bursting in on their night with their powerful presence they were quick to speak into their fear with truth; a message that will lead them to the source of perfect peace. (Luke 2:8-20)

Much like the world the shepherds lived in, this Christmas our world is anything but peaceful. Our lives can feel heavy at times. Fears both personal and global can steal our strength and rob us of courage.

Maybe that's what the original carol writer had in mind when he brought together the comforting lyrics with courage inspiring chords resulting in an anthem that calls to the fearful telling them,

"Fear not! We have good news!

Go quickly to the one who can give you Peace."

We need someone to step into our fears, point us to rest and help us lay aside our dismay. Perhaps then we may embrace each other in brotherly love and find comfort and joy.

My prayer today: Thank you Jesus for bringing me courage when I want to hide or close myself off from the world. Give me your peace so I may open my heart to the brother or sister I am afraid to welcome into my life. Remind me of how you came to forgive me so I will be able to give grace and forgiveness. Help me to remain in your rest when all around me beckons me to busyness and worry. Thank you for embracing me and help me to embrace others. You make me able and I have nothing to dismay.

"God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen"

God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r
When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy

In Bethlehem, in Israel
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
O tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Fear not then, said the Angel
Let nothing you affright
This day is born a Saviour
Of a pure Virgin bright
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's pow'r and might
O tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Read more: Pentatonix - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Lyrics | MetroLyrics