THE FIRST NOEL

The first Noel the angel did say

was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay,

in fields where they lay keeping their sheep,

on a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,born is the King of Israel.

We’ve sung that song for as long as we can remember… It’s a favorite, right up there with “Joy to the World” … “Away in a Manger” … “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and … “Silent Night, Holy Night.”

… but what does it mean? What is the definition of “Noel”?

According to Webster, Noel is “a Christmas carol.” Also according to Webster, “English speakers borrowed the word noel from French. It can be traced further back to the Latin word natalis, which can mean “birthday.”

So, the theology in the song is correct. The first Christmas carol, the first noel, was sung by the angels. Their audience was “certain poor shepherds in fields” in the hills outside Bethlehem.

Because the Son of God was born … and because He lived a sinless life … and because He died a sacrificial death at Calvary … and because He overcame death and the grave … we must continue to sing the Noel!

Then let us all with one accord

sing praises to our heavenly Lord,

that hath made heaven and earth of nought,

and with his blood our life hath bought.

Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,born is the King of Israel.

“… think on these things” (Philippians 4:8, KJV).