I have a vivid memory from my childhood, one that was replayed yearly. The Christmas tree is decorated to the hilt and all of the lights in the house are extinguished. Choral Christmas music is playing through the speakers and we are sitting on the couch just gazing at the lights. No more rushing, no more fighting to hang an ornament, no more talking… just resting.
We are such sensory creatures. I notice how my heart and mind respond when I step outdoors and gaze at the stars, or chat around a fire. There’s something sacred about tiny lights in the dark. I have a list of music to share with you today, but like most art… this music might not speak to you in the same way. My hope is that you explore, listen, find tunes and lyrics that quiet your heart and then take the time to shut off the lights, turn on the tree and just rest. Let every heart prepare Him room!
3. Behold the Lamb of God by Andrew Peterson. This is not a traditional Christmas album. This is an album about the who God saw the brokenness of humanity and then resolved to heal. This is the story of the Incarnation. Listen. Purchase.
4. Breath of Heaven by Amy Grant. These are moving words. Read Mary’s story in Luke 1:16-38 and then push play. I’m immediately taken into the story, into the fears and doubts, and into her resolve: May it be to me as You have said.
5. Christmas Songs by Jars of Clay. This is my favorite Christmas album to play while I’m working. Chill, calm, and tender.
6. Oh Come Let Us Adore Him by Shane and Shane. This whole album is wonderful, but this is the one I put on repeat… and then repeat once more.
7. Handel’s Messiah, The Nutcracker, The Four Seasons- Op. 8 Violin Concierto, The Mormon Tabernacle Choir(talk about beautiful singing!)… the list of classical goes on and on for good reason. If you need a new Pandora station just type in Classical Christmas.
What are the sounds of your Advent?
Following and waiting,
Ginger
