December 20

Angels From the Realms of Glory

by Gary Rosing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TyAqVRFj5a8

This beautiful Christmas Carol was written by Scottish poet and hymnwriter, James Montgomery.  On Christmas Eve in 1816, after reading in Luke 2 about the angels announcing the good news of Christ’s birth, he was inspired to pen the poem that eventually became this hymn.  It was published in his newspaper, the Sheffield Iris, the next day.

The poem/carol weaves the story of the same angels who witnessed and sang “creation’s story” now “proclaiming Messiah’s birth” birth to the Shepherds.  The Shepherds are drawn to see Him.  The Sages (the Wisemen) are called from their studies to follow the star.  The waiting of the Saints is finally at an end, and Sinners, with true repentance, find mercy and freedom.  The next to the last stanza recognizes (especially at Christmas) that though we see Him as an infant, “He shall fill His Father’s throne” and every knee shall bow.  The Carol is wrapped up with a resounding note of triumph and praise as “All creation” joins the angels in songs of praise.

I would say that not all Carols are created equally.  This one, for me, is one of the special ones. When I’m singing it, I am reminded that I’m rejoicing not only with my brothers and sisters here in the fellowship at Meadow Springs, but I’m singing it in the company of angels who witnessed and sang at Creation’s glory.  Hallelujah!!

 
Kim Spear