Welcome to part three of our four-part series of Christmas songs and devotionals! This time we'll explore the significance of angels and stars in the Christmas story. We look forward to decorating for Christmas every year and many of us top our trees with angels or stars. In our home, the first ornament we place on the tree is a simple star, stamped out of tin. It dates back to the 1940’s, in the time of World War II. It was a childhood ornament of my mother’s and it's really precious to me.
These ornaments and decorations are part of our family's tradition; they warm our hearts, they brighten our home, and they represent something special from the Christmas story. These beautiful heirlooms remind us of the angels and of the star that appeared on the first Christmas 2,000 years ago. In this feature, we’ll look deeper into the signs and messengers that God used to announce the birth of His Son.
The Bible gives several accounts of angels in the story of Jesus' birth. On one occasion, an angel appears to Mary with life-changing news and tells her that she is about to conceive the Son of God. An angel appeared to Jospeh in a dream that changed everything for him as well. The angel told him that Mary's baby was indeed the Son of God and that Joseph was to take Mary as his wife and name her baby, Jesus.
An angel appeared to the shepherds to announce the birth of Christ, and told them to not be afraid, "For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." That angel was then joined by a multitude of angels praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, and good will toward men.”
The Bible speaks of a star that guided the wise men to the newborn King. The wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who was born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east and have come to worship Him." They were then instructed by King Herod to find the Child and report back with His whereabouts so that he could worship Him too. But Herod secretly had evil intentions. When the wise men departed, that same star guided them into Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where Jesus was, and they worshipped Him. They were later warned in a dream not to report back to Herod, so they returned to their homeland by a different route.
God used angels, a star, and even dreams to speak to Mary and Jospeh, and to the shepherds and wise men. They listened with open hearts and willingly followed. Mary risked humiliation and even death by being pregnant before she was married. Joseph considered leaving, but he stayed. The shepherds left their sheep in the night to find the baby Jesus. The wise men defied a king's orders. They all trusted and followed what the Lord had revealed to them. What is God saying to us this Christmas season? Are we listening? May we open our hearts to hear His voice. May we listen and obey.
You can find more devotionals and song selections from our Christmas series in the links below:
- Christmas: Songs of Mary
- Christmas: Songs of Shepherds & Wise Men
- Christmas: Songs of Angels & Stars
- Christmas: Songs of the Infant & Manger
The following songs remind us of the angels and of the star that God used in special ways at the birth of Christ. We hope you’ll consider these beautiful pieces as you plan your music for the Christmas season.
CHRISTMAS SATB (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing (with orchestra)
Arranged by Dennis Allen
With a rolling, Celtic rhythm and triumphant feel, Dennis Allen's SATB arrangement of this Christmas anthem is a a great choice for a blended service, Christmas gathering, or choir showcase. Full orchestration available for Unlimited PLUS Members.
CHRISTMAS SATB (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
Angels Sing Medley
Arranged by Craig Adams
This beautifully flowing medley ties together 5 of the most treasured songs about the birth of Jesus. Arranged for SATB choir, it includes "Silent Night," with excerpts from "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear," Angels We Have Heard on High," "Angels from the Realms of Glory," and "What Child is This?"
CHRISTMAS SATB W/ SOLOIST (EASY)
Follow the Star
Arranged by John Patrick
Arranged for soloist/worship leader with SATB choir, this celebratory song of persistence in faith and the pursuit of Jesus is an energetic, Christmas praise & worship anthem.
CHRISTMAS SATB W/ CHILDREN (MEDIUM DIFFICULTY)
Star So Bright
Arranged by Bradley Knight, Regi Stone
From veteran arrangers Bradley Knight and Regi Stone, this atmospheric Christmas ballad features simple children's choir and 4-part adult choir. Includes "Angels We Have Heard on High."
CHRISTMAS INSTRUMENTAL (DIFFICULT)
Angels We Have Heard on High
Arranged by Joseph Nimoh
Arranged for string quartet and piano, this inspired rendition of the classic carol employs a modern touch with moments of jazz harmonization. Perfect for an instrumental feature during the Advent season.
