sweet songs of Christmas

Our church chorale sang this song during the "Spirit of Christmas" program at Berean two weeks ago. It has a very powerful message in the words - the text written by Eileen Berry - and the music which fits the text so well is written by Dan Forrest. Dan Forrest graduated from Bob Jones University and recently completed his doctorate in Kansas. He returned to staff at BJU this fall. I was searching for the words on line and noticed several university choirs featured this song in their program this year.

You can listen to "Carol of Joy" at this link to Dan's site and the words are below:

Carol Of Joy

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

Oh 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!

Oh fearful world, to you is the song– Peace with your God, and pardon for wrong! Tidings for sinners, burdened and bound–A carol of joy! A Saviour 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!

Oh friendless world, to you is the song! All Heaven’s joy to you may belong! You who are lonely, laden, forlorn– Oh fallen world!Oh friendless world!To you,A Saviour is born!