My favorite Christmas songs are the ones that tell the story of the first Christmas and are obscure enough to not have been overplayed and become cliche. I was able to find a few, like Ding Dong Merrily on High, and I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In, to put on the green cassette in the sidebar. Have you figured out how to turn that on? (Click the > icon. You can advance it >> and pause it too, as you wish.)
Other favorites are The Little Drummer Boy and The Friendly Beasts for the same reason. They not only bring the nativity story to my mind but also dramatize it for children. I never tire of watching this version of The Little Drummer Boy video, which would explain why our VHS literally wore out.
Music is the language of our souls. With it we express things that won't come out any other way. "It is not necessary that you understand," as the magi tells heartbroken little Aaron.
Another New York City memory indelibly marked on my mind is the Messiah Sing-In we attended at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center. I have looked and looked for one in every city since to no avail. An usher handed us the entire score of Handel's music as we took our seats. Then, with the utmost respect and expectation of excellence, the conductor directed the audience of paying patrons to sing that magnum opus with a full orchestra and professional soloists. It was incredible and remains one of the ways I picture heaven: unceasing praise and worship with choirs of angels.
God inhabits the praises of His people. If you want to feel His presence, praise Him and He'll take up residence.
