O Holy Night has been crowned with the title “Most Beautiful of all Christmas Carols” because of its superb melody and lyrics. Few would argue this fact, and we have sang it in churches, schools, nursing homes, hospitals and any Christmas gathering that called for it.
Where did it originate? The story is amazing. Placide Cappeau (1808-1877), wrote the lyrics in Roquemaure, France on December 3, 1847. His priest had asked him to write a poem and Cappeau, on his way to Paris on a business trip, received the inspiration for the lyrics to “Cantique de Noel” about halfway through the trip.
Once in Paris, he took the poem to Adolphe Adam, who wrote the music, and the song was performed a few weeks later on Christmas Eve.
Fast forward to Christmas Eve, 1906, where Reginald Fessenden, a Canadian inventor, makes history when he broadcasts the very first AM radio program. Not only do WWI soldiers get to hear a radio program from home for the very first time, but they also get to hear Fessenden playing “O Holy Night” on his violin and then sing the final verse! The beloved carol was one of the first pieces of music to be broadcast on radio.
O Holy Night
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of the dear Saviour’s birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
Who among us has not felt the joy of Christmas and hope of the ages welling up inside of us when we reach that famous line in the song, “Fall on your knees! Oh, hear, the angel voices! Oh, night, divine! Oh, night when Christ was born!”
Dare we say there are few songs more glorious! The thrill of the birth of the Savior surely makes us want to fall on our knees in adoration and praise! The Messiah has come, the Savior of the World!
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6.
Let this song bring peace and joy to your heart and mind today as you are reminded of that Holy Night so long ago. Our Lord came for you, for me, and for all who would receive Him. He still opens His arms today and says, “Come…”. The door is still open for a little while before He comes again in all His glory and takes His Church, His people, those that are called by His Name, out of this world and that door of Grace closes forever.
Make sure it is a glorious day!
