The Carols of the King - Pt 10

Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. (Philippians 3:17-21 ESV).

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” was originally recorded by Bing Crosby in 1943, and it quickly became one of America’s most popular holiday songs. The song is written from the perspective of a soldier serving overseas during World War II. While the melody is one that lingers in our minds, the meaning of the song is actually quite somber as the closing line reveals that being home for Christmas isn’t quite a reality just yet. The song particularly struck a nerve with overseas GIs and their families awaiting their return from serving their country in WW II. The GI magazine said Crosby accomplished more for military morale than anyone else of that era. It has been recorded by many artists through the years. Some could argue that Crosby’s first recording of it is the best. Be that as it may, you can listen to it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYOvd2PZoPU. Our home is the place where we spent most of our years growing up and making memories. It’s where we took our first steps. It’s where we learned to drive a car. It’s the place where we graduated high school and college and maybe even met our spouse. A place where we’ve grown into the people we are now. Home for us is where we feel at ease with those we love the most. It’s the place where we can be ourselves and not worry about the world outside. Or is it? The Scripture says “our home isn’t in this world” (cf. 1 Peter 2:11). There is nothing wrong with enjoying places on earth. We have wonderful memories and experiences in different places throughout our lives. But we weren’t meant to be at home here. Our home is with our Jesus in Heaven. Until He says it’s time to be with Him, we’ll stay here. And as much as we love our earthly homes, we’ll never be fully satisfied. Think of what songwriter Laura Story says in her famous song, Blessings: "What if my greatest disappointments or the aching in this life is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy." Only Christ can satisfy. Only His presence and peace can bring us pure, unadulterated joy. Only His comfort can truly take us off the ledge of disappointment and disaster. One day we will truly be home with Him. Not just for Christmas but for eternity.