Christmas Musicals for Church
Issue link: https://read.jwpepper.com/i/131534
3 FOREWORD O nl y At the coming of winter there is a blessed quietness that seems to settle upon the heart. The chill of frosty air and the season's lengthening shadows invite us to reflection and simplicity. As we retreat to the hearth and away from the cold, there is a subtle turning that seems to happen. Weary from struggle and frozen by distress, we find warmth and assurance inside our sanctuaries of contemplation. Peace falls like a gentle snow and we remember, with great hope, the promises of our faith. The candles of hope, peace, love and joy are once again kindled in our spirits. We gaze with longing into the silent night, seeking a star and listening for a song that will fill the deep silence and set our hearts to celebration. vi ew It is then, above the whistle of the winter wind, the first notes of a distant "Gloria" arrives. Soft at first, it comes like a dream, and then in a great crescendo, it sweeps across our emptiness and fills our hearts with a symphony of angel wings. The mountains and canyons echo like cathedrals declaring the news: "Jesus the Savior is born. Glory to God in the Highest." rP re Overflowing with worship and surrounded by grace, we discover our miracle. Melody and message reach out and draw us close into their lavish embrace. Rejoicing, and filled with wonder, we join the music, lifting our praise into the night. How amazing that in the very heart of winter's desolation, we have found our Song. Fo JOSEPH M. MARTIN APPALACHIAN WINTER - SATB