Music has been a popular part of the celebration of our Lord's birth for a long time—a VERY long time! In fact, Scripture records the fact that the central characters of the Christmas story almost instantly responded to the events surrounding the birth of our Savior with songs. So, literally from the very beginning, singing has been a way to celebrate God’s indescribable Gift.

To celebrate Advent this year, I want us to take a close look at these first songs of Christmas—songs originally sung by Zechariah, Mary, the angelic host, and Simeon and recorded in the first couple chapters of the Gospel of Luke. I invite you to join me in this study in the hope that we will all feel the excitement and wonder those first Christmas singers felt as they watched the events unfold that led to the birth of God's only Son.

At my request, Deb Vaughn has once again used her God-given talents and gifts to prepare this devotional guide for your use as we study these musical texts. You’ll note that she has included a section each week for personal journaling. I encourage you to write down your thoughts as you meditate on this part of God’s Word each day of this blessed season.

It is my prayer that this guide will help your Christmas be one in which you grow more and more like Jesus.

Keep the SON in your eyes,

Mark

Pastor Mark Adams

My children pointed out to me that Christmas music started playing in the stores the day after Halloween! It is hard to go anywhere without hearing secular and sacred holiday music right now. I find it striking and a little sad that so many people around us have no real understanding of the words they hear.

If you have celebrated more than a few Christmases, much of the music is so old and familiar that you may not sing the words with your brain engaged! I would like to encourage you to read your favorite carols out loud with a new "ear" to God’s message in their words.

It was difficult to choose the hymns and songs for this devotional guide, as the Christmas season is rich with music! I have attempted to find a traditional hymn and a contemporary Christian song to illuminate each week’s Scripture reading. I probably didn’t pick all of your "favorite" Christmas music, and in fact, I left out several of mine!

Also included each week is a selection from the Book of Common Prayer, readings for use with an Advent wreath in your home, and some questions to spark your journaling. At the back, there is a calendar using the Names of God for daily meditation.

God will meet you in the midst of this busy season. Listen for His voice and His heart through the words and music of Christmas.

With joy-

Deb Vaughn