Go Tell It on the Mountain (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 290)
Refrain
Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere;
go tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born!
1 While shepherds kept their watching o’er silent flocks by night,
behold, throughout the heavens there shone a holy light.
Refrain
2 The shepherds feared and trembled when, lo, above the earth
rang out the angel chorus that hailed our Savior’s birth.
Refrain
3 Down in a lonely manger the humble Christ was born;
and God sent us salvation that blessed Christmas morn.
Refrain
Text and Music: African American Spiritual; Public Domain
Devotion
Do you celebrate “Christmas in July”? Although it seems like a commercial ploy, why shouldn’t we celebrate Jesus Christ’s birth—along with his life, death, and resurrection—throughout the year? So, in observance of Christmas in July, today’s hymn is the African American spiritual, “Go Tell It on the Mountain.” This song, with its upbeat melody, commonly concludes Sunday School Christmas programs. Children frequently sing the lyrics, especially the refrain, loudly with joyful gusto. (Honestly, it might be more boisterous shouting than melodious singing.) Their enthusiasm often brings huge smiles to adults who hear them. Certainly, Christ’s birth is one of the messages God calls each of us to share, whether we proclaim it from high on a mountain or low in a valley. Therefore, perhaps we adults can follow our children’s example—with or without the shouting. Let’s radiate enthusiasm while sharing the message, “God sent us salvation” (v. 3)!
Prayer
God of all seasons, today and every day, we rejoice that you sent your Son to be born. Embolden us to share with vibrant enthusiasm the message of his birth, life, death, and resurrection. Amen.