Jimbo's Jots

Through the generosity of a friend, my wife and I had the chance to attend a Chris Tomlin Christmas concert. To be honest, it felt more like a night of worship. Over the years, he’s led worship at several youth ministry events I’ve attended, and I’ve always appreciated his heart for pointing people to God. Throughout the evening he repeated a line I absolutely loved: “We are a people singing to God, singing about God, singing with the people of God.” That spirit filled the entire night.

During a break in the concert, he said something else that struck me: “Christmas started with a song!” That immediately brought my mind to Luke’s Gospel. Luke emphasizes the role of song as a response to God’s saving work in the world. Here are the songs he records—each one given a traditional Latin name in the Church:

Mary’s Song — The Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55)
Mary praises God for His mercy, His faithfulness, and the great reversal He brings—lifting the humble and bringing down the proud.

Zechariah’s Song — The Benedictus (Luke 1:68–79)
Sung at the birth of John the Baptist, yet centered on the coming Messiah. Zechariah blesses God for visiting and redeeming His people.

The Angels’ Song — The Gloria in Excelsis (Luke 2:13–14)
A heavenly choir announces Jesus’ birth to the shepherds: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace…”

Simeon’s Song — The Nunc Dimittis (Luke 2:29–32)
When Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple, Simeon praises God for allowing him to see the Savior—“a light for revelation to the Gentiles.”

Last week, I mentioned that I have a favorite arrangement of “Joy to the World,” and I loved hearing my friends share theirs. But this week I find myself drawn back to the very beginning of Jesus’ story here on earth. Maybe I’ll linger in this space for the rest of the Christmas season. You’re welcome to join me. Let’s remember: the story began with a song.

Be blessed as you sing! Be a blessing as you sing with others!