There is nothing quite like the original. Cars, paintings, toys, sports cards, and even video games illustrate this. Within the original we see a unique value as it was the first and the launch of something great. Future copies are valued too, but there is nothing quite like the original.

Some of the most beautiful and moving songs in the world are Christmas songs. Their melodies touch our deepest emotions while the words engage us with the Divine mind. Israel’s plight and hope is brought to life as we sing,

O come, o come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.

The release from the tyranny of the Satan is celebrated as we sing,

God rest ye merry, gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Saviour
Was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan’s power
When we were gone astray

O tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

The mystery of the baby Jesus is pondered as we sing,

What child is this who laid to rest on Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet while shepherds watch are keeping.
This, this is Christ the King whom shepherds guard and angels sing.
Haste, haste to bring Him laud.
The babe, the son of Mary.

As great as these songs are, they are extensions of the original songs and stories that God gifted to us in Scripture. In the Gospel of Luke, there are four passages that may be considered songs in chapters one and two. Mary sung what has now become known as The Magnificat having learned of her plight to be the mother of the Son of God (Luke 1:46–55). Zechariah sang The Benedictus upon John the Baptist’s birth which praises the redeeming visit of the Lord God of Israel (Luke 1:67–79). The Angels sang Gloria in Excelsis Deo, as they announced the birth of Jesus to shepherds (Luke 2:14). And Simeon sang what has been termed Nunc Dimittis, where he held the baby Jesus and sung of God’s salvation for all peoples before his departure (Luke 2:29–32).

These songs serve great purposes in the Gospel of Luke.¹

First, they explain. These songs unpack the reality of the situation each character finds themselves in. Inspired by the Holy Spirit they express the Divine movement of God upon themselves, Israel, and even the world. Mary magnifies the Lord as she considers her part in the story of Jesus birth and the effect by which there will be a great reversal upon all mankind. Zechariah details the significance of his son John in the story of Jesus and blesses God for visiting and redeeming Israel and remembering His covenant to Abraham. The angels lift up the glory of God and the impact His glory will now have on mankind bringing peace to those of His good favor. And Simeon recognizes the inclusion of the Gentiles with Israel according to OT Scripture.

Second, they propel the story. These songs help move the narrative forward. They explain but do so in a way where the story line is being advanced. Each song moves us a little closer to the ultimate reason why Jesus came—to save His people from their sins.

Third, they engage the listener. We are a people who love the gift of song. One quick glance at the views of popular songs on YouTube will suffice to say people love music. Luke’s songs act like a musical where speech turns to song and listeners begin to tap their feet and sing along. These songs do more than entertain; they invite us in.

As we sing the glories of God and His Christ this Christmas, let us remember the original Christmas songs given to us by God. Let us sing with Mary, Zechariah, the angels, and Simeon the wonders of His love, the mercies of His covenant, and the visitation of His Son. Our songs today are truly wonderful, but there is nothing quite like their originals, having been divinely inspired in Scripture by the Holy Spirit.

Check out this beautiful and modern rendition of Simeon’s song —

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pIj3tu8mFgA.