Noel=Birth

Luke 2:9-10

      Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.

 The First Noel LBW 56

 1    The first Noel the angel did say was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
     in fields where they lay, keeping their sheep, on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

      Refrain      Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel! Born is the King of Israel.

 2    They lookèd up and saw a star shining in the east beyond them far;
     and to the earth it gave great light, and so it continued both day and night.  Refrain

3    And by the light of that same star three wise men came from country far;
      to seek for a king was their intent, and to follow the star wherever it went.  Refrain

4    This star drew near to the northwest, o’er Bethlehem it took its rest;
      and there it did both stop and stay right over the place where Jesus lay.  Refrain

5    Then entered in those wise men three, full rev’rently upon their knee,
      and offered there in his presence their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense.  Refrain

6    The let us all with one accord, sing praises to our heav’nly Lord.
      That hath made heav’n and earth from naught, and with his blood our lives hath bought!  Refrain

Text: English carol, c. 17th cent.

      “Noel” is a French word derived from the Latin word “natilis” meaning “birth” or the Latin word “novum” meaning “new”.  So in a sense this word encompasses the entire Christmas season, “I bring you good news of a great joy…for unto you this day is born a savior!”  Early folk carols often had lots of stanzas and memorable choruses.  An individual or small group would sing the verse - a crowd would reply with the chorus.  

       This carol, published in 1833, is a prime example.  The final verse (omitted from our hymnal) crosses the boundaries of time and space, inviting us to join with Christians of every time and place to praise the Lord who has bought us with His blood!

Prayer for forgiveness:  Much can go wrong in relationships: harsh words, broken promises; shredded trust.  We pray God will pour forgiveness into the heart of every person, that a spirit of forbearance and grace come and create an environment where kindness, love and forgiveness can take root and grow.  Amen.