Gather ‘Round Ye Children Come
December 24, 2011
Andrew Peterson has become one of my favorite songwriters and musicians. His lyrics have helped me see life through different eyes and the folkish melodies that accompany them have rung true with my Appalachian roots. His 2010 record, Counting Stars, was my introduction to his music. I had the album on repeat for who knows how many weeks. His songs hold an honesty about life, joy in God’s promises, reassurance in trials and puzzling questions, sometimes left unanswered.
But back to last weekend… I purchased my ticket as soon as the pre-sale went live and as it turned out that got me an almost from row seat on the end of an age old, wooden pew. How cool is that? Yes, the concert was wonderful, as I expected it would be, and yes I enjoyed seeing many familiar faces grace the stage that night, but greater than all that was the majesty of the story they were telling. I could go on and on about the evening, but no doubt you’re all quite busy about now, after all it is Christmas Eve! So, I leave you with the words from Sally Lloyd-Jones, read before each performance of Behold The Lamb of God. You’ll find a link to the songs below, and on this Christmas Eve, may I recommend that you gather ’round and listen to the old, old Story!
“No, the Bible isn’t a book of rules, or a book of heroes. The Bible is most of all a Story. It’s an adventure story about a young Hero who comes from a far country to win back his lost treasure. It’s a love story about a brave Prince who leaves his palace, his throne ~ everything ~ to rescue the one he loves. It’s like the most wonderful of fairy tales that has come true in real life!
You see, the best thing about this story is ~ it’s true.
There are lots of stories in the Bible, but all the stories are telling one Big Story. The Story of how God loves his children and comes to rescue them.
It takes the whole Bible to tell this Story. And at the center of the Story, there is a baby. Every Story in the Bible whispers his name. He is like the missing piece in a puzzle ~ the piece that makes all the other pieces fit together, and suddenly you can see a beautiful picture.”
Click below to listen to the music.
December 24th, 2011 at 2:02 pm
Adam, It is great to see a young man of your age so easily share their love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is not just any old story. I am sure the show was fabulous . Thank you for sharing it and your views about it. It is going to be wonderful to see what the Lord has in store for you as the years pass and your journey unfolds. Thanks for sharing and Merry Christmas
December 24th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
Thank you, Craig, and Merry Christmas to you as well!
December 12th, 2012 at 11:49 am
my name is jack hager my grand father was from tazwell county va.i wonder if your people had any connection to that area or just west va.?
December 19th, 2012 at 10:45 am
Hi, Jack! I have roots in Lincoln County, WV but none that I know of in VA. It’s nice to meet you though. I hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas!