Behind every classic hymn lies a story of its writing. “Joy to the World” is no exception. Written by Isaac Watts in 1719, it’s known as one of the most celebrated and beloved Christmas carols of all time. Yet, did you know it was never written as a hymn for the Christmas holiday? Here’s the back-story . . . Growing up in England, Isaac Watts (1674-1748), from an early age held a natural propensity for rhyming and poetry. During the late 1600s, most worship music in Europe centered on singing the Old Testament Psalms. One day after church, young Isaac…
Perhaps you’re familiar with the record in Luke 17:11-19 where Jesus heals ten leprous men. It’s an astonishing miracle, yet also reveals a common trait of human nature. As the men carried out Jesus’ command to “GO, show yourselves to the priests,” it says as they went, they were cleansed. And one leper, realizing he was healed, returned to Jesus shouting praises to God, falling at Jesus’ feet, and GIVING HIM THANKS. The other nine never returned to give thanks for God’s blessings. How many people today are “crisis Christians”—those who petition God for a miracle when they are in…
“O Holy Night” is one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time. Its fascinating story began in France, yet eventually spread around the world. In 1847, Placide Cappeau, a commissioner of wines in a small French village, and a known poet, was asked by his parish priest to write a poem for their Christmas mass. When he finished “Cantique de Noel,” Cappeau turned to his friend Adolphe Charles Adams to compose music for it. The song was sung at Christmas Eve mass. Initially, “O Holy Night” was widely loved throughout France and made its way into many Catholic…
Long-stemmed red roses are nearly synonymous with Valentine’s Day and portray the language of deepest love. It’s an interesting tradition that dates back to 17th century Sweden when a new kind of art known as the “language of flowers” was sweeping across Europe. It focused on communicating using flowers only and no words. Lists of flowers and their meanings spread far and wide as more and more people embraced the fad. For example, giving someone a yellow carnation meant they disappointed you. A purple hyacinth indicated you’re sorry and were asking forgiveness. In new or seasoned relationships, giving lavender roses…
A new year brings hope, a sense of fresh beginnings and better days. For many, it’s a time to set goals and sharpen our focus on what is truly important. Enter the “SMART” acronym . . . A well-known business model for setting goals and objectives says SMART goals are: S-specific; M-measurable; A-attainable; R-relevant; T-time-bound. A lot has been written on these highly effective concepts, and they offer a practical measuring stick for success when making personal goals. But let’s also consider Ephesians 6, which gives us the crucial reminder that at its core, all of life is spiritual. Finally,…
