by 
Saturday, December 24
To save us all from Satan’s power, when we had gone astray
From God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
By Mike H.
In 1833, William Sandy published, Collection of Seasonal Hymns that contains the song, “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen.” It states that this carol may be one of the oldest, dating back to the 15th
century. In its first stanza there are two very important thoughts to ponder: “Remember, Christ, our Savior was born on Christmas day” and “To save us all from Satan’s power when we were gone astray.”
The words, “our Savior” compose a statement of all-inclusive concern. There is no limit placed here. Christ was born for anyone who believes in Him. There is no time limit, job, or statement needed other than belief. With belief, any are among the “our.”
Second is, “When we were gone astray.” “We” is everyone, not a separate group or just evil people. Then, “were” means we have all already gone astray (and will probably again). None of us is free from wandering . . . even after we “believe.”
Later, in the 4th stanza, there are two more lines to give us hope: “’Fear not then,’ said the angel,” and “to free all those who trust in Him from Satan’s power and might.” These are wonderful proclamations of hope and joy. To trust is to believe, to believe is to know Christ. If we remember this, Christ is our companion and Savior.
Prayer: Father in heaven, may tomorrow be a rebirth of our belief in the child sent to us. May we rediscover the joy of the relationship with our Savior. Help us grasp the joy of a life in the presence of the Christ for all the days of our lives.
