Carol of Joy

I love the Christmas season! I love the chance it provides to worship and praise our Savior. Honestly, the Atonement of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ provides great reason to rejoice! There are 3 important aspects of the Atonement: He saves us from death, saves us from sin, and can comfort us in our afflictions. This gospel really is "good news." It brings peace and joy into our lives. My heart is just so full of gratitude at the moment.
At the "Celebration of Christmas" concert, we ended with the song "Carol of Joy." It was my favorite song on the program, as well as for many other people. This is actually our second year singing it. The lyrics are by Eileen Berry, and the music by Dan Forrest. It is quite the moving song. It has brought me nearly to tears while singing many times (which is a very dangerous thing...).

Carol of Joy

Green leaves all fallen, withered and dry;
Brief sunset fading, dim winter sky;
Lengthening shadows, dark closing in;
Then through the stillness, carols begin.

O fallen world, to you is the song!
Death holds you fast, and night tarries long.
Jesus is born, your curse to destroy;
Sweet to your ears, a carol of joy!

Pale moon ascending, solemn and slow;
Cold, barren hillside shrouded in snow.
Deep empty valley, veiled by the night;
Hear angel music hopeful and bright.

O fearful world, to you is the song!
Peace with your God, and pardon for wrong.
Tidings for sinners, burdened and bound,
Carol of joy, a Savior is found!

Earth wrapped in sorrow, lift up your eyes!
Thrill to the chorus filling the skies.
Look up, sad-hearted! Witness God's love;
Join in the carol swelling above!

O friendless world, to you is the song!
All heaven's joy to you may belong!
You are are lonely, laden, forlorn:
Now unto you, a Savior is come!