December 15, 2021 - Luke 2:15, 20
When I was growing up Christmas was a very special day. After the presents were opened at our home, we would meet at our Grandpa Miller's place. All the aunts and uncles, cousins and others would come to Grandpa and Grandma's place for an afternoon of family fun and activities. The counters, tables and about any space that could hold a bowl or plate was filled with the food and desserts that would come in that day. Everyone was expected and everyone was faithful to come.
The hymn "O Come, All Ye Faithful" is a song that extols the faithfulness of individuals as they were called to come to Bethlehem to see the newborn baby in the manger. While the exact origins of the original song are not known, it is a favorite Christmas song having been translated into more than 100 different languages through the years.
The original Latin text consisted of four stanzas and the title is stated in the first two words, "Adeste Fidelis", translated "come ye faithful ones or be present or near, ye faithful". The first stanza calls us to envision again the baby Jesus in Bethlehem's manger. The second verse is often excluded in many hymnals but reminds the singer of the Christ-child being fully God Himself. "God of God and Light of Light begotten, Lo, He abhors not the Virgin's womb; Very God, begotten, not created - O come, let us adore Him." The third stanza portrays for the worshipper the angelic choir's revered song to the terrified shepherds. Finally, the last verse presents praise and adoration to the Word, Jesus, who was with the Father from the beginning of eternity (John 1:1).
For many years this song had an anonymous author but more recent research indicates the song was written and set to music in 1744 by an English layman named John Francis Wade. One hundred years later the song was translated into English by Frederick Oakeley, an Anglican minister who desired to use it for his congregation.
As the song summons the faithful to come to Bethlehem to behold and worship the newborn king, may we too give adoration to Christ. Perhaps we, like the shepherds, can proclaim and glorify God to those we meet during this season of the year. Saying, "Merry Christmas" or leaving a Christmas tract at the restaurant or other places we frequent can cause others to be mindful of the reason for the season we are celebrating. God has given us Good News so let us be faithful in sharing the special event!
With an Expectant Hope,
Pastor Miller