Insight from our Singing - part 12

I have really enjoyed this journey through a hymnal finding and being reminded of songs that we sing (or don't sing but should) that have depth and encouragement for us. 

Sometimes there is meaning in the story behind the song.  Such is the case with "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day".

The words are fairly simple.

I heard the bells on Christmas day
their old familiar carols play
and wild and sweet the words repeat
of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how the day had come

The belfries of all Christendom

Had rolled along the unbroken song

of peace on earth good will to men. 

And in despair I bowed my head
'There is no peace on earth' I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
of peace on earth good will to men.

Then pealed the bells both loud and deep

'God is not dead nor does he sleep

The wrong shall fail the right prevail

With peace on earth, good will to men.

Verse three sounds a little odd for a Christian service.  When you read the story of how and why he wrote the song you understand a little more.  He had  a son who was severely injured in the Civil War.  He had just recently lost his wife to a tragic accidental fire in which it has been said he himself was badly burned trying to save her.  And in this midst of his grief he wrote this song.  Now verse three makes a little sense.  Our lives are not always joyous and awesome!  Sometimes life hurts.  And it is in these moments that we need to be reminded that God is not dead and does not sleep and that He is bringing about His plan to make peace on earth!  What a great thought.  Even so come quickly Lord Jesus.