American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow penned these lines in 1863 during his despair over the Civil War. Although this last couple of years dealing with Covid and its consequences make this carol especially appropriate for us today. From mixed information about vaccines, and conflicting reports about the usefulness of masks to the way various groups, political and otherwise) seek to polarize our nation, there is very little peace or good will to be found. Now, all of the end of year holidays are rushing near with the resulting stress and busyness that seems to entail for many of us, including me!
For those of us who have already invited Immanuel into our hearts, we are blessed with this promise, “The peace of God [that peace which reassures the heart, that peace] which transcends all understanding, [that peace which] stands guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus [is yours].” (Philippians 4:7, Amplified Reading Bible, emphasis added). This is the same peace foretold by the angels announcing Jesus’ birth. “Then suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host (angelic army) praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest [heaven], and on earth peace among men with whom He is well-pleased.’” (Luke 2:13 & 14).
As you move towards the celebrations that mean Christmas for you, there will be many preparations. Meals will need to be planned, visits might be organized, and decorations will most likely be displayed. Take the time to ask God to ‘decorate’ your own heart with His peace and good will. It is ours for the asking and may make all of the difference in how the rest of our preparations succeed this year. Use the many bells we hear during this season remind you to let God’s peace stand guard over your heart and mind.
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
I heard the bells on Christmas Their old familiar carols play,
And mild and sweet their songs repeat of peace on earth, good will to men.
And the bells are ringing, Peace on earth, Like a choir they’re singing. Peace on earth,
In my heart I hear them, peace on earth, good will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head: “There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong, and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men.”
But the bells are ringing, Peace on earth, Like a choir they’re singing. Peace on earth,
Does anybody hear them? Peace on earth, good will to men.
Then rang the bells more loud and deep: “Good is not dead, nor doth He sleep:
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, With peace on earth, good will to men.”
Then ringing, singing on its way, The world revolved from night to day
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime, Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And the bells are ringing, Peace on earth, Like a choir they’re singing. Peace on earth,
And with our hearts we’ll hear them, peace on earth, good will to men.
Do you hear the bells, they’re ringing? Peace on earth,
The life, the angels singing, Peace on earth,
Open up your heart and hear them, peace on earth, good will to men
Peace on earth, peace on earth, peace on earth, good will to men.