December 23, 2023 - There are many gospel songs that ask a question - "What wondrous love is this?", "What can wash away my sin?", "Were you there?". And a number of carols as well - "Do You Hear What I Hear?, "Mary, Did You Know?", and our focus for this morning, "What Child is This?"
The tune for this favorite carol is as celebrated as its lyrics. It's named "Greensleeves", and some historians think it could be a thousand years old. Others believe that it was written by English King Henry VIII. We find it referenced in a play by none other than William Shakespeare. In none of these periods was this tune associated with any songs of the church. Its' jaunty rhythm would have made it totally inappropriate for religious music. It was heard, rather, in the pubs and taverns - a popular tune. Then, in 1865, William Dix decided to write words worthy of this lovely melody. Dix, just 28 years old, wasn't a minister - as were many hymn and carol writers - but an insurance man, who wrote poetry as a hobby. After a near fatal illness, during his recovery, he penned a poem that he titled "The Manger Throne". I love that title! I love these words . . .
Copied from SCT without permission.
What child is this who laid to rest on Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while shepherds watch are keeping
This, this is Christ the King whom shepherds guard and angels sing
Haste, haste to bring Him laud, the Babe, the Son of Mary
For its time, these lyrics were extraordinarily personal. The singer doesn't just hear about the nativity, but is placed within it on that night in Bethlehem 2000 years ago. This Christmas, 158 years after their writing, these words continue to touch our hearts . . . as we gather around the "manger throne."
Copied from SCT without permission.
So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh. Come, peasant, king to own Him
The King of Kings salvation brings, let loving hearts enthrone Him!
Meet you back here tomorrow,
Bro. David
dmathis@fbccenter.org
