Joy to the World!

Ever since I was a boy, the Christmas season has always been my favorite time of year. I have many happy childhood memories of going out into the woods to cut down the “perfect” tree, festive gatherings with family and friends, and after-dinner drives to see the Christmas lights. But my favorite part of Christmas has always been the glorious music celebrating the birth of Christ. Our church choir always presented a wonderful service of Christmas choral music, and, for me, Christmas Eve was not official until our soprano soloist sang “O Holy Night.”

Today I am inspired by the beautiful music of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, the Atlanta Sacred Choral, and Christmas music services at several of the major churches around Atlanta. Every year I get the same feeling of hope, of wonder, and of joy that the music of Christmas promises: because of the birth of Jesus, we who believe will be saved through everlasting life.

It is my hope that in this season of Advent, you will hear a piece of music, whether on the radio, television, in church, or in the concert hall, that touches your heart and stirs your soul. He is born! Joy to the world, indeed!