O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting Light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight
For Christ is born of Mary
And gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love
O morning stars together
Proclaim Thy holy birth
And praises sing to God the King
And peace to men on earth
O holy Child of Bethlehem
Descend to us, we pray
Cast out our sin and enter in
Be born to us today
We hear the Christmas angels
The great glad tidings tell
O come to us, abide with us
Our Lord Emmanuel
"Little Town of Bethlehem" is a beautiful Christmas song by Brandon Heath that captures the essence and significance of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. The song is featured on his album "Christmas Is Here" and has become a beloved Christmas classic.
The lyrics of the song paint a vivid picture of Bethlehem, a small town that holds great significance in the Christian faith. It describes Bethlehem as a place of quiet and stillness, where the silent stars shine above. This imagery sets the stage for the miraculous event that took place in this humble town.
The song reflects on the hopes and fears of all the years being met in Bethlehem that night. This is a reference to the long-awaited Messiah, who was prophesied to be born in Bethlehem. The birth of Jesus brought hope to a world in need of redemption, while also fulfilling the fears and anxieties of the people who were waiting for the promised Savior.
One scripture verse that relates to the theme of the song is Micah 5:2, which says, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." This verse prophesies the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, emphasizing the significance of this small town in God's plan for salvation.
The song also highlights the miraculous nature of Jesus' birth. It reminds us that Christ was born of Mary, a virgin, and that the angels kept watch over Him while mortals slept. This imagery reflects the biblical account of the angels appearing to the shepherds in the fields, announcing the birth of the Savior and praising God.
The chorus of the song calls Jesus the "holy Child of Bethlehem" and invites Him to descend to us and be born in our hearts. It acknowledges our need for Christ to enter our lives, to cast out sin, and bring us peace. This echoes the invitation in Revelation 3:20, where Jesus says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me."
The song concludes by pleading for Jesus to abide with us, to stay with us as Emmanuel, meaning "God with us." This points to the central message of Christmas – that God became flesh and dwelt among us in the person of Jesus Christ. It is a reminder that Jesus is not merely a historical figure, but He desires to have a personal relationship with each of us.
"Little Town of Bethlehem" by Brandon Heath beautifully captures the meaning and significance of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. It reminds us of the hope and peace that Jesus brings, and invites us to open our hearts to Him. As we sing this song during the Christmas season, let us remember the miracle of Jesus' birth and the impact it has on our lives.
