Caroling

Earlier tonight, I heard an unexpected door bell. It was past 10 PM and I wasn't expecting anyone to come. Who could be ringing the doorbell? Should I even bother to answer it? Somewhat half-willingly, I went downstairs to the door. On the other side of the door, I could see a bunch of giggling teenagers. They were debating whether to stay or move on. When I opened the door, they instantly began to sing. "Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle all the way ... " Their music was slightly out of sync and tune, but nevertheless full of joy and happiness. The lyrics were not even Christian necessarily, but their happiness reminded me of the happiness and joy I used to have when I caroled. When I clapped after the finish, they burst into laughters and thanked me and wished merry Christmas. What wonderful kids!

It has been so long since I last caroled or had a visit of carolers. I think the last time was when I was in college -- maybe some thirty years ago -- other than the one time we sang at a couple of nursing homes maybe 6-7 years ago. Wow, it has been that long! It didn't have to be that long, but I just haven't had a chance to carol door to door.

Caroling is such a wonderful tradition, but it has somehow faded into memory, into something of the yesteryears.

Caroling is a proclamation of the Savior's birth. It is a proclamation of the reason for joy and happiness. It is a proclamation of the good news, the gospel. It began with the singing of the heavenly angels and the heavenly host:

"Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." (Luke 2:14)

I have an urge to sing of His birth. I have an itch to sing praises to Him. Indeed,

Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests!