I’ve been diving in to the history behind some of our well known “vintage” Christmas carols this December. Some of you may have seen them in my FB stories. (I’m doing my best to highlight one per day). 🎄 It’s been so interesting and I’ve gained a much greater appreciation for songs and their backstage stories.
Today’s archeological dig was especially compelling because it seems like it could have been written this year, and I wanted to share.
🎶” I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” 🎶was written as a poem in the middle of our country’s Civil War in 1863 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
His wife of 18 years had just passed away unexpectedly, and his son had gone to fight for the freedom of all men to parts unknown. Longfellow was notified by telegram on December 1st, that his son was seriously wounded at a battle during the Mine Run Campaign. He was emotionally devastated by both events and the stress of everyday life during war time.
Yet in his deepest despair, he retained his devout faith in Christ.
As I read thru the verses of the original song (some of the modern versions have been altered), I was struck by these two in particular:
🎶’And in despair I bowed my head;
“There’s 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 more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men.”🎶
Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of the dark world and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
God’s not dead friends. He’s very much alive and He corrects injustices in His own timing. Keep the faith. Goodness and loving kindness will ultimately prevail. ❤️🇺🇸🙏
I’ll forever see this Christmas carol in a different way. May the peace that passes all understanding be with you today!
xoxo~ liz
#goodmedicineisknowingourpast
#peaceonearthgoodwilltomen
#thewrongshallfailtherightprevail
#GodBlessUsEveryone
#relyontheGreatPhysician
#Faithisthebestmedicineofall
