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.

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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

Christmas Carol Contemplations: What Child is This?

"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." John 1:5

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While others are rejoicing in the merriment of the season there are those who are mourning, alone or suffering from depression. For some the sparkling lights, parties and Christmas experiences highlight their pain.


Ironically Christmas Carols and Hymns have been one of the weapons in my arsenal for over 20 years as I've learned how, with God's Grace, to subdue depression when it tries to rally against me. There have been seasons in my life where listening to Christmas songs would give me courage and hope which is why my friends know I listen to them throughout the year when necessary.

It turns out that I'm not the only one who has found Hope through the meditations of Emmanuel's journey from heaven to earth to be with us.

The author of today's hymn almost lost his life to illness as a young man and his convalescence included experiencing depression in the following months. His response was to turn to scripture in search of truth and hope during his spiritual crisis. His search eventually led to his recovery and beautiful poetry later put to song.(For more read devotion at this link.)

Because I know the lyrics already I prefer this version by Lindsey Sterling

for the beauty, delicacy and emotion of it. In my heart I hear the words

 but I posted another one below in case you weren't familiar with the lyrics.

My prayer today: What child is this in Mary's lap is sleeping? It is you, Emmanuel. You who came to bring Hope and Light to darkened hearts. Help me to see You today and see your Light which has overcome the darkness. Use me to share your light with those around me.