Hail The Prince of Peace |
"Hail the Heaven-born Prince of Peace" opens the third stanza of another favorite carol, "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing". If we've ever needed the Prince of Peace, it is today, in our world. There are so many anxious thoughts that weigh us down this time of year, especially. But what is this peace we seek? For many of us, we seek an inner peace. Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” Or another amazing verse about a peace that passes all understanding found in Philippians 4:6–7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This is inner peace we long for. This Christmas Season, we praise Jesus, the Prince of Peace and receive the peace that only our God can bring. History: "Hark! the Herald Angels Sing""Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" has an interesting origin. The lyrics were written by Charles Wesley, one of the founders of the Methodist movement, and the brother of John Wesley. Charles Wesley wrote the hymn in 1739 as a part of a collection of hymns for the celebration of Christ's birth. The original opening line of the hymn was "Hark, how all the welkin rings," using the term "welkin" to refer to the celestial sphere or the heavens. Later, in the 1750s, George Whitefield, a preacher and friend of the Wesley's, altered the opening line to the familiar one we know today: "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing." The melody that is commonly associated with the hymn was composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1840 for a cantata commemorating Johann Gutenberg's invention of the printing press. The melody and lyrics were later combined, creating the beloved Christmas carol that continues to be sung during the holiday season. One of my favorite arrangements of this carol from Dan Forrest! Friends, may you sing this song and proclaim the Prince of Peace! Christine
|
As founder and coach, of Worship Singers, I help Worship Leaders, Teams and Choir singers who struggle for stronger singing, desiring encouragement and community in ministry become accomplished, confident, beautiful Leaders of Worship. Specialized Training, Encouragement to support your Worship Choirs to better equip you for your calling. 🎶Get on the email list for more Worship Singers Tips and ideas for your ministry.
October 2024 Walking with God Through Every Season Embracing Change and Transformation Hello Reader, There’s a beautiful song by Nichole Nordeman called Every Season that I often find myself singing or playing around this time of year. As we watch the seasons change, it’s easy to reflect on the ways life shifts around us—whether in our faith, our ministry, or our daily routines. Now, if you’re like me, maybe you’re not a big fan of change. I’m a creature of habit, comforted by the things that...
EASTER 2024 3-TIPS for a Stress-Free Easter Week Some have dubbed it the "Super Bowl of Sundays" for church musicians! For Worship Leaders and those in ministry, Easter week is very busy, super rewarding and sometimes quite stressful! You likely have extra services to prepare and to sing! It requires a good amount of stamina and a good bit of intentionality. So, how do you walk into Easter week with joy in your step, fully ready, in good voice and stress free? Here are my 3-Tips for a Stress...
March 2024 SUNDAY 10-MINUTE CHALLENGE! Hi friends, I invite you to join me this week in the Sunday Morning 10-Minute Challenge. Use this video to warm up your voice and sing your best this week! No more tired voices or struggling to hit notes. Your singing will sound open, free, and relaxed! To join the CHALLENGE: Sing with me on this video this Sunday AM! or pick a Weekday or Challenge Extreme- Sing it every day this week! You can stream it from your phone in the car before church - or where...