Tuesday, December 01, 2009

The First Noel

The church choir was singing "The First Noel" when the director stopped and reminded us how beautiful the song was. I was glad for the interruption, because even though I was singing the song, I was missing the beauty.

I wasn't noticing the intricacies of the harmonies. I wasn't even paying attention to the lyrics and the message of joy they were sharing. I was concentrating on singing the notes of a song I have sung since childhood and was missing the point.

It is easy to stop paying attention to the familiar because we know what is coming. Christmas is full of the familiar, from the songs we sing to the story we celebrate.

As we move into December, begin to be bombarded by carols and are reminded once again of the first Christmas, don't forget to pay attention. Stop yourself, look around and listen to the beauty of the familiar that infiltrates this extraordinary and holy season.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel!

8 comments:

Leslie Ringger said...

great post, megan. i've been listening to andrew peterson's "behold the Lamb of God" cd and it's done exactly what you're talking about... taken Christmas from familiar to awe-inspiring and deeply profound.

Tami said...

i agree...good post.the first noel is actually my favorite christmas carol, so it's good to remember the beauty of it all! also, it's fun singing with you in choir! :)

Amy said...

I totally agree with you. It is way to easy to fall into the familiar. I am focusing on the amazing details of the season, too. The sparkle in my girls' eyes as we decorate the tree and the wonder in their faces as we tell the story of Jesus' birth. Thanks for the great post.

dawn said...

It is easy to stop paying attention to the familiar because we know what is coming.

wow...I need to think about that one. Thanks!

homebody0404 said...

I've got to break out my Clay Aiken Christmas cd. It really is full of beautifully sung carols. Listening to them makes me well up when I focus on the words. Yes, it is good to take in the lyrics and let their meaning fill your heart.

Dayle ~ A Collection of Days said...

Such a beautiful reminder of what matters.

Anonymous said...

I have to thank you -- this was a reminder that I was needing today.

Dawn said...

a very good point to make! i am all about paying close attention and reallylsitening to the words of songs so beautiful!