Christmas Hymns Evoke Memories of the Good Shepherd
As someone who has a hard time carrying a tune, I am in no position to comment about music in the worship service. However, just because I can’t sing doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy the many options that we have.
Jen Moser is a terrifically talented musician, and her instrumental and voice contributions to our services lift up and inspire all of us. We are so fortunate to have her, as well as those in the choir who lend their voices to our choral music each week.
Music is especially important this time of year when we sing the familiar hymns that evoke memories of Christmases past. My favorite Christmas hymn, among many, is “Angels We Have Heard on High.” I really like the music, but the lyrics also have special meaning, recounting the angels’ presence as the shepherds watched over their flocks the night Jesus was born. This stirring hymn invites us to raise our voices to proclaim that the long-awaited Savior has come, and because of Him there is hope on earth.
It also reminds us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, who laid down his life for his flock. After overcoming sin and death through his sacrifice on the cross and resurrection from the tomb, he continues to watch over us and always will, so that we are never alone. Therefore, we have nothing to fear because, as the Gospel of John (10:10) reminds us, “he came that we may have life and have it to the fullest.”