The hymns of Advent and Christmas are so incredibly theologically rich. If we pay attention to their words, we can learn a great deal about Christology (which answers the question “Who is Jesus?” and, at its essence, is the systematic study of the Person and Nature of Jesus Christ). We can brush past these hymns, but, next time you hear it, listen to the words of the popular, “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”:

“From God our heavenly Father, A blessed angel came, And unto certain shepherds, Brought tidings of the same, How that in Bethlehem was born The Son of God by name, O tidings of comfort and joy.”

They repeat the story of salvation told to us in a simple hymn. What a useful form of catechesis!

So, listen to words of Christmas carols, for in many of them, a whole rich theology lesson is found.

And on Christmas night, we hope you have a silent night and a holy night, one that is calm and peaceful and one that is bright.