Now all is well

The Sunday before Christmas our church is filled with beautiful music celebrating the birth of Jesus.  It is a time to pause and remember the real gift of the season.  Today we were treated to the angelic voices of our choir and the combination of enchanting melodies from an orchestra.  As the first warm tones from the ensemble floated through the air, I was embraced in peace.

While the musical story progressed from the first angel's visit to the celebratory last note of the King's birth, my heart was overflowing with the wonderment of Christmas.  It truly is the greatest story ever told and one I never grow tired of hearing.  Each time I am overcome with the realization of how big God's love is.  He sent his son to be born that day knowing the plan he had for him  - and for each of us.  This knowledge is amazing and incomprehensible at the same time.

When the congregation was led in joining in to sing "The First Noel," we were told that some consider the word Noel to be a shortened version of "now all is well".  Doesn't that just sum up the story of this miracle birth?  Our world forever changed one night in Bethlehem.  God's love and plan for us would ensure that now, all is well. 

The First Noel, the Angels did say

Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay

In fields where they lay keeping their sheep

On a cold winter's night that was so deep.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel

Born is the King of Israel!

As I plan and prepare to celebrate this most glorious day this week, I am prayerful that I will remember and treasure what can be shared in one word.  Noel.