Zechariah 8 / Revelation 16 / Psalm 144 / Proverbs 30:29-31
Although I read through all the scriptures for today, because it is Christmas Day, I have a song on my heart. As I was singing the song, I decided to look up the lyrics and I was struck with what a powerful truth this song tells. There are times when the old hymns and poems are best, and I think this is one of those times.
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day began as a poem written on Christmas Day in 1863 by Henry W. Longfellow. It was later put to music in 1872 by John B. Calkin. Here are all the powerful words for you to enjoy:
“I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
In music sweet the tones repeat,
‘There’s peace on earth, good-will to men!
I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
Th’ unbroken song
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 does He sleep!
For Christ is here;
His Spirit near brings peace on earth, Good-will to men.’
When men repent and turn from sin
The Prince of Peace
Then enters in.
And grace imparts within their hearts
His peace on earth, good-will to men.
O souls amid earth’s busy strife,
The Word of God is light and life;
Oh, hear His voice, make Him your choice,
Hail peace on earth, good-will to men.
Then happy, singing on your way,
Your world will change from night to day;
Your heart will feel the message real;
Of peace on earth, good-will to men
Merry Christmas to you and yours! May God richly bless you today as you gather to celebrate His first coming.
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