When the kids were little, we got in the habit of singing “Christmas church songs” before bed. We no longer sing these songs all year round, but in December, we pull out the hymnal.
The words of “It Came Upon A Midnight Clear” came as a welcome reminder:
All you beneath life’s crushing load, whose forms are bending low, who toil along the climbing way, with painful steps and slow, look now, for glad and golden hours come swiftly on the wing. Oh rest beside this weary road, and hear the angels sing.
This season invites us to rest in the midst of busyness, the weariness, the crushing load that we so often try to carry alone. We are grateful for the reminder to pause, to wait, and to listen for the angels.
In the Greek, the “heavenly host” is literally translated as the “heavenly army” or “angel army.” But what does this army of angels bring? Peace.
This army of angels comes to announce words of peace in the midst of the weariness and pain and the frantic pace. To all of us who rest long enough to hear them sing.
Continue reading with Amy Julia:
- Advent Reflections: Prepare Him Room e-book
- Walk With Me Through Advent
- What I Learned When I Tried to Stop Drinking So Much Wine (or, Advent Reflections on Peace and Overcoming Anxiety)
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