"Angels We Have Heard On High" is a beautiful Christmas song performed by Point of Grace. This beloved rendition of the classic carol captures the essence of the holiday season and brings a message of joy and wonder.
The song begins with the opening line, "Angels we have heard on high, singing sweetly through the night." This immediately sets the tone for the song, as it transports us to that holy night in Bethlehem when the angels appeared to the shepherds, announcing the birth of Jesus. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the scene, with the mountains echoing the angels' joyful proclamation. It reminds us of the power and majesty of the heavenly hosts, and the significance of the event they were proclaiming.
As we delve deeper into the song, we are reminded of the shepherds' awe and wonder. The chorus declares, "Gloria in excelsis Deo," which means "Glory to God in the highest." This phrase is taken directly from Luke 2:14, where the angels' proclamation is recorded. It is a powerful reminder of the reason for our adoration and praise during the Christmas season - the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
The song then asks the shepherds why they are jubilant, why they are singing songs of happy cheer. It poses the question, "What great brightness did you see? What glad tiding did you hear?" These questions mirror the curiosity and excitement that the shepherds must have felt upon witnessing the miraculous events of that night. It invites us to reflect on our own response to the good news of Jesus' birth and to consider the joy that it should bring to our lives.
The next verse encourages us to come to Bethlehem and behold the newborn King. It urges us to adore Him on bended knee, just as the shepherds did. This aligns with the biblical account of the shepherds leaving their flocks and journeying to see the baby Jesus. It reminds us that Christmas is not just about the festivities and presents, but about humbling ourselves before the Lord and acknowledging His sovereignty.
The final verse brings the focus back to the manger, where Jesus lay. It mentions Mary and Joseph, emphasizing their role in this miraculous event. It calls for their aid in raising our hearts in love, reminding us that the story of Jesus' birth is not just a historical event, but a personal invitation to encounter God's love and grace.
"Angels We Have Heard On High" is a timeless Christmas carol that captures the essence of the nativity story. It reminds us of the angels' proclamation, the shepherds' awe, and the significance of Jesus' birth. Through its lyrics, it invites us to enter into the wonder and joy of that holy night and to encounter the Savior who came to bring us salvation. This rendition by Point of Grace beautifully conveys the message of hope and adoration that lies at the heart of the Christmas story. It is a song that continues to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds, reminding us of the true reason for the season and inspiring us to worship the newborn King.