The Source of Christmas Comfort
December 2024
Christmas is a time of reflection and reminiscing and I am reminded of an experience many years ago that both surprised and moved me.
A group of us were singing Christmas songs to some very sick patients in hospitals, including Canuck Place Children’s Hospice. While people clearly enjoyed the serenading, we noticed that certain songs had more effect and power than others. I realized that the classic Christmas carols were deeply touching to these very sick children and their families and I began to reflect on the verses and ask why.
If you were a parent with a very sick child would you rather hear:
‘Jingle bells jingle bells, jingle all the way’
or
Light and life to all he brings, risen with healing in his wings. Mild he lays his glory by, born that man no more may die. “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing”
‘Frosty the Snowman was a jolly happy soul’
or
Yet in the dark streets shineth the everlasting light The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight. “O Little Town of Bethlehem”
‘Rudolf the red-nosed reindeer had a very shiny nose’
or
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death's dark shadows put to flight. “O come, O come, Emmanuel”
Don't get me wrong, I love a lot of these holiday songs, but they only offer a fleeting good feeling at best. The true Christmas story in carols, on the other hand, can bring peace and comfort to those who suffer. The Christmas season tends to magnify everything–our joys and our sorrows. Issues of family, relationships, health, employment, and money are often felt more intensely.
As we approach Christmas Day, please take a moment to read all the verses of some of your favorite carols. I think it will evoke for you the true basis for the joy and hope of the season.
I remember, from that same night, a mother cradling her dying child as we sang. I leave with you the same words of comfort we left the two of them as we sang our final carol, “Away in a Manger”.
Be near me Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever and love me l pray
Bless all the dear children in thy tender care
And fit us for heaven to live with thee there.
"God bless us every one,” *
Tom
*Tiny Tim in “A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens