Sometimes a carol is so familiar that we sing it without really thinking about the words. In this case, we are singing a clear and succinct presentation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. What a beautiful Christmas message for the world!

A thrill of hope. The weary world rejoices. For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn. This beautiful, beloved Christmas carol speaks of longing and expectation, but then of the answer in Jesus. A sure hope. An eternal hope. A hope fulfilled, but also a glorious future.

This week’s carol was first sung by people who knew all about being outsiders. They could identify with lowly shepherds and could rejoice that these “unimportant” ones were chosen to be the first to receive the good news of the Messiah’s birth. In our divided culture, Jesus’ birth and life point us to a countercultural way of thinking and relating to others who might not share our points of view.

One of our most beloved carols started with a poem that had little to do with Christmas. It’s drawn from Psalm 98, which does speak of the wonders of Jesus’ unfailing love for us. As believers, we can sing that verse with awe, gratitude and a prayer that we can love others with his truth and grace.