No Christmas carol stirs my heart more than this one. In part it is the music of Greensleeves, which truly is a lovely melody, but that is only part of this carol's deep appeal. The words are filled with such a deep sense of awe. They reveal the deepest of mysteries, the almost unbelievable truth that God would send His Son from Heaven to earth as a humble babe, in a humble manger, to man, to save us through His death on the cross and triumphant resurrection. The story of God's redemptive plan is stunning in its beauty and overwhelming as it reveals God's great love for us and His mercy towards us. The carol shares this remarkable story in a way that gives me shivers and drives me to worship my King.
This beautiful carol was written in 1865 by a man in a dark hour of his life. William Chatterton Dix was 29 years old when he was struck with a disabling and near fatal illness. As he spent months in bed, he slipped into deep depression and it seems he came face to face with God as he wrestled his way through this dark time. During this period he wrote several hymns, none more powerful or famous than What Child is This.
(Here are the original lyrics)
What Child is this who, laid to rest,
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!
Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce him through,
The Cross be borne for me, for you;
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!
So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh;
Come peasant, king to own Him.
The King of kings salvation brings;
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise, the song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby;
Joy, joy, for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!
May my heart enthrone Him, and my life sing His praise.
Merry Christmas!
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2 comments:
I am not sure I have ever heard all of the verses of this song. It rally is beautiful and makes you stop and think and thank God for His gift of Jesus!
One of my favorites, I didn't know the story behind the song though. It's it great that out of our darkest moments, God speaks the most beautiful words to restore our joy or faith.
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