Hark the herald angels sing
Glory to the newborn King
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled
Joyful all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With angelic host proclaim
Christ is born in Bethlehem
Hark the angels sing
Hark the angels sing
Glory to the newborn King
Christ by highest heaven adored
Christ the everlasting Lord
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of a virgin's womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with man to dwell
Jesus our Emmanuel
Hark the angels sing
Hark the angels sing
Glory to the newborn King
Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace
Hail the Son of righteousness
Light and life to all He brings
Risen with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark by Hillsong Worship is a beautiful and uplifting song that captures the essence of the Christmas season. With its powerful lyrics and melodic sound, it reminds us of the birth of Jesus Christ and the hope and peace that He brings to the world.
The song begins with the line, "Hark the herald angels sing, glory to the newborn King." This line is a direct reference to the angels' proclamation to the shepherds in Luke 2:14, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased." It sets the tone for the entire song, emphasizing the joy and celebration that comes with the birth of Jesus.
Throughout the song, there is a strong emphasis on peace. The lyrics proclaim, "Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled." This echoes the message of Isaiah 9:6, which prophesies about Jesus, saying, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Jesus came to bring peace to a broken and divided world, offering reconciliation between God and humanity.
The theme of peace is further explored in the bridge of the song, which declares, "Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace, Hail the Son of righteousness, Light and life to all He brings, Risen with healing in His wings." This references the healing and restoration that Jesus brings to our lives through His death and resurrection. It is through Him that we can find true peace and wholeness.
The song also highlights the humanity and divinity of Jesus. The line, "Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, Hail the incarnate Deity," speaks to the mystery of the incarnation - that God took on human form in the person of Jesus. This is a central belief in Christianity and is beautifully expressed in this song.
The lyrics of "Hark" are accompanied by a dynamic and energetic melody, which adds to the overall impact of the song. The music builds throughout, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.
As with many songs by Hillsong Worship, "Hark" is meant to be sung in a congregational setting, allowing worshipers to join together in proclaiming the good news of Jesus' birth. It is a song that encourages us to lift our voices in praise and worship, reminding us of the significance of Christmas and the hope that Jesus brings to the world.
In conclusion, "Hark" is a powerful and meaningful song that captures the spirit of Christmas. Its lyrics draw from biblical references, particularly the angels' proclamation and the prophecies about Jesus as the Prince of Peace. The song beautifully expresses the joy and celebration of Jesus' birth, and reminds us of the hope and peace that He brings to our lives. It is a song that can be sung and enjoyed by individuals and congregations alike, as we come together to worship and honor the newborn King.
