So, it’s Sunday evening in the week before Christmas and the church building is packed. This is probably the largest gathering you are likely to see all year, even if you pastor a large congregation. There are lots of visitors. You recognise some friends and family of church members who have come with them. Then,… Continue reading Preaching at the carol service
Tag: Carols
Advent Reflections available from Faithroots
This year, Advent begins on the 27th November. Some Christians find it helpful during Advent and the lead up to Christmas to set aside time for reflection each day. The other year, I put together a series of short talks/meditations linking to specific carols. I’ve included a mixture of advent hymns such as “Oh Come… Continue reading Advent Reflections available from Faithroots
The mystery of love (Christians Awake)
Happy Christmas. Today we’ve a Christmas Day #DailyDose special introducing one of my favourite carols.
O Come all ye faithful
The John’s Gospel carol
It came upon the midnight clear
What has Bethlehem to do with Babel?
In the bleak midwinter
What does it mean to “give my heart”?
As with gladness
Today’s carol looks at the Wise men. We have their example and that of Herod or the religious leaders. Intellectual curiosity if that Jealous, defensive scheming Wonder and worship How do we respond to Jesus? 1 As with gladness men of olddid the guiding star behold,as with joy they hailed its light,leading onward, beaming bright:so,… Continue reading As with gladness
Magnetic Jesus – The first Noel
With a shout out to the brilliant Rich Pitt and Rachel Martin who drew our attention to the magnetic Jesus who draws disparate people together at the Church Central South Carol service …. 1 The first nowell the angel did saywas to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;in fields where they lay keeping their… Continue reading Magnetic Jesus – The first Noel
God and sinners reconciled (Hark the Herald Angels Sing)
We’re coming to the big hitters now in our Christmas Carol series! 1 Hark! the herald angels sing,“Glory to the newborn King:peace on earth, and mercy mild,God and sinners reconciled!”Joyful, all ye nations, rise,join the triumph of the skies;with th’angelic hosts proclaim,“Christ is born in Bethlehem!” Refrain:Hark! the herald angels sing,“Glory to the newborn King”… Continue reading God and sinners reconciled (Hark the Herald Angels Sing)
The wondrous gift (Oh Little Town of Bethlehem)
Was it really silent, peaceful and still in Bethlehem on the first Christmas night? If not, what are the carols getting at? O little town of Bethlehem,how still we see thee lie!Above thy deep and dreamless sleepthe silent stars go by;yet in thy dark streets shineththe everlasting light.The hopes and fears of all the yearsare… Continue reading The wondrous gift (Oh Little Town of Bethlehem)
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