I recently received a copy of the Sovereign Grace Christmas CD "Savior" (thanks Bob!) and wanted to post a review on what this CD is all about. (FYI- it can be purchased here: http://www.sovereigngracestore.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=M4185-00-21).
"Savior" has become one of my favorite Christmas CDs for many reasons. Not only is this CD packed with fresh new songs to listen to during the month of Dcember (seriously, there can only be SO many versions of Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls!!), it is also packed full of theological content. Each song explores deeper the mystery of God becoming a man and has given me a richer understanding of the word "Incarnation."
But the greatest reason I love this CD is the emphasis of the paradoxical birth of Christ is evident in every song. God becoming man - What does it mean? How is this possible? What does this mean for me? That is what this CD answers. And it answers the "why" as well. Why was it necessary for Jesus to be born? Why would an all-powerful God subject Himself to the limits of man? He came motivated by love and obedience - love for His children and obedience to His father. He relinquished His rights to bring me hope, peace, and to meet my greatest need. He came to die.
Currently Sovereign Grace Ministries is offerring a free download of "Glory Be To God" - a great song of rejoicing as a result of the Incarnation. (download here: http://www.sovereigngracestore.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=M4185-06-51) and has the entire CD streaming on the SG radio (http://new.sovereigngrace.com/radio/SaviorCD/wimpy.asp).
My favorites on the album are:
"Hope has Come" is a triumphant rejoicing of the hope we have in Christ. Once we were slaves in misery and now we have been given Hope through Him! He has come to break sin's power and set us free!
"Glory Be to God" is a song rich in theology with an explanation of how that applies to me - My action should be "Hosannah - Glory to God for what He has done!" Again, the result is hope and joy. He covers our disgrace. He's conquered where we've failed (in EVERY area).
"Sleep Jesus Sleep" - this song is a "double-favorite" of mine. Not only is it a sweet lullaby with a beautiful melody - but also it talks about the humanity of Jesus. He is not just fully God. He is fully man - He understands my life and my individual struggles. Through the Incarnation, He is the Creator who now requires sleep. He is the King who is now dependent on others for protection and care.
Excerpts from various songs:
"God is born a man today"
"You who came to us in weakness
Born to us in poverty"
"God invisible appears
Endless ages wrapped in years
He has come who cannot change
And Jesus is His name..."
"Being’s source begins to be
And God is born"
"See the One who spans the heavens with His hand
With fingers so small
See this babe so poor all of heaven adores
He’s the ruler of all"