Freedom in a Christmas Carol

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me,

Because the Lord has anointed Me

To preach good tidings to the poor;

He has sent Me to [a]heal the brokenhearted,

To proclaim liberty to the captives,

And the opening of the prison to those who are bound.”

Isaiah 61:1 (NKJV)

For twenty-five years I sang “O Holy Night” without understanding the words. Now that I am a precious child of God, the carol brings life and hope to my soul. My favorite line in the song,

“Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother, and in His name, all oppression shall

Cease.” The realization Jesus entered the world to break every chain still humbles me. I was in chains. Chains of self-doubt, worry and unbalanced expectations. I saw myself as unlovable, worthless, and I strived for perfection. Through years of studying the Word, I understand the freedom found in Christ alone. As we celebrate His birth, will you join me and compare my favorite verse of “O Holy Night” with Scripture. Take time to meditate on each Scripture. I don’t want to tell you what to feel. Allow the Holy Spirit to speak to your soul.

Chains Shall He break

“He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains.”

Psalm 107:14 (NIV)

“I am your servant, LORD… you have freed me from my chains.” Psalm 116:16 (NIV)

For the slave is our brother

“but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant (slave), and

coming in the likeness of men.” Philippians 2:7 (NKJV)

“For He who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source, Which is why

He is not ashamed to call them brothers.” Hebrews 2:11 (ESV)

And in His name, all oppression shall cease

“Then we cried to the LORD, the God of our fathers, and the LORD heard our voice and

saw our affliction, our toil, and our oppression.” Deuteronomy 26:7 ESV

“From oppression and violence, He redeems their life.” Psalm 72:14 (ESV)

Jesus quoted the prophecy from Isaiah, closed the book, and declared

“Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” Luke 4:21 (NKJV)

I envision people walking out of jail cells with no shackles, leaping for joy at their newfound freedom. Their heads lifted high to greet the sun. Hearts that once craved love now possess complete acceptance in Christ, the embodiment of Love. I’m in that crowd of people. He is the chain breaker who heals the wounded, and releases the captives from the bondage of sin. We are now free to love one another as equals and joint heirs in Christ. I know most people won’t listen to Christmas music until after Thanksgiving. However, will you join me and sing this verse all year, especially when feelings of darkness try to rob our joy and extinguish the light of God’s love. May our hearts rejoice, and may we fall on our knees in reverent worship to the One who

gave our soul worth. How has a Christmas carol changed your perspective on God?