ChristianDance

Trust God with tomorrow before you understand it. An angel steps into an ordinary day in Mary’s life. She hears that she will carry the Son of God. Her first response isn’t praise, but a question: “How can this be?” Gresha Schuilling’s song, “Let It Be to Me”, stays with that moment. The angel does not scold Mary for asking, and answers with a promise: “No word from God will fail.” Mary’s questions immediately stop. She calls herself His servant, welcomes what He has said, and answers “freely.” Have you ever wanted to see the whole picture before taking the first step? Mary took the step first. Luke records her words: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” Her “yes” cost her comfort and the plans that she had in mind for her future. Her “yes” also gave the world a Saviour. Your “yes” may look smaller. Maybe it is a hard conversation, a calling you keep dodging, or a person you need to forgive. Don’t delay. Name it, and then surrender your h...

Has darkness ever felt like the final word? Three days after Presence Music vocalist Leah Monson lost her brother, she helped to write a Christmas song. Heartbreak doesn’t usually produce carols. This one did, and Presence Music recorded it together with Billboard-charting artist Joel Vaughn. “The Darkness Didn’t Know” retells Bethlehem from the darkness’s point of view. A newborn’s cry “pierced the silent night,” and the darkness “could not comprehend” it. Why would shepherds kneel and angels sing over “a babe so tender and mild” ? Darkness saw a helpless infant. It missed the King on his “manger throne.” Darkness kept missing Him. It never saw a Son who would “lay aside his royal crown” and “trade it for a cross.” It never imagined a “stone cold grave” becoming the place where “life would shine its light.” The apostle John captured the whole story in a single sentence: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5). Not then, not now, not ev...

What if heaven’s greatest gift was meant for you? Long before the first sunrise, God had a plan with your name on it. Gresha Schuilling begins her song, “A Son Is Given”, right there: “Before time began // Our redemption was planned.” Centuries rolled by. Prophets spoke, kingdoms rose and fell, and His promise stands firm. “Though generations passed, God’s Word would still stand.” Have you ever waited so long for an answer that you stopped listening for it? Israel knew that same pain. Then a child arrived. The prophet Isaiah had seen this coming: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, ESV). The chorus of this song sings those names right back to Him. Each of His names meets a need. Confused? He counsels. Weak? He is mighty. Anxious? He is your peace. Isaiah also wrote of a “great light” breaking into deep darkness (...

Where do you find hope this Christmas? “The Manger King” by Prestonwood Worship opens with a question and gives you no time to dodge it: “Can you hear it? Can you see it now?” A strong male lead and a full choir carry the song, with strings, piano, synths and drums building a sound big enough for the news it brings. The news is Emmanuel, “God with us” . Matthew 1:22–23 gives the name its meaning: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us)” . Think about that. The Creator of Heaven and Earth chose a feeding trough, a cold night, and a poor family. He didn’t shout from a distance. He came close enough to touch. The lyrics make it clear how Love came, “In the silence, heaven touched the ground.” Does your silence feel heavy? Are you going through a hard season, a strained family table, confronted with an empty chair? Do you believe He enters ...

Peace begins in a willing heart. When did you last open your own time capsule? Avery Stafford found a time capsule somewhere in his mind and opens it in his song “My Love of Christmas (Peace Starts in Me)”. His time capsule contained a Folgers can filled with buttons and thread, a crystal globe, a denim patch, and the scent of Avon cologne. Seemingly ordinary treasures, but each one carries a Christmas that he’s never stopped loving. Avery blends gospel warmth with soulful pop to speak to the child in all of us, the child who still believes that Love leads the way. In the bridge, he wishes that child well, “forever dancing under the starlight with stories yet to tell.” The song also reminds us that memories alone cannot fix a restless / broken world, and he knows it: “We long for happily ever afters, but none of us really knows.” So where does peace begin? Not in a headline, a treaty, the outcome of the midterms, or a December calendar. Paul gives us an answer in Colossians 3:15: “And...

Michelle K (Kahnt) takes a well-known classic Christmas song and strips it back to what the earliest believers had: united voices. This rendition of the song is a beautiful a cappella call-and-response with the Ichos Gospel Music Team (an African choir). The lyrics retell the angelic announcement that a new King has arrived, and that He brings peace, mercy, and reconciliation between God and mankind. It reminds us that Christmas isn't a cozy backdrop; it's heaven stepping into our street.  The song moves from the wonder of Bethlehem to one of the biggest mysteries we know and are hardly able to comprehend - our God choosing to be fully present in human flesh, close enough for all to touch, and still Lord over all. But most of all, the hymn reminds us that Jesus comes as the Prince of Peace and the giver of new life, laying aside glory instead of demanding it.  So, what do we do with news that is this big and important? We rise up. We sing back our praises. We let the choir'...

It's not too often you hear a Christmas song that is solemn and introspective, especially that the whole world more often than not celebrates the season with a festive mood. And rightly so with the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, celebrating the season with a festive mood is only fitting.  But there are also some corners of the world that need a little more peace, a little more love. And this is where Andrew Macdonald's latest Christmas song comes in. In what has become a tradition of his (third straight year to release a Christmas song), Andrew dedicates this song to those who are suffering and might be spending a little less joyful Christmas. There's a certain warmth in this engaging song that empowers the solemnity of the message.  Armed with his trusty keyboard, the melodies dance in sync with the words, that is more like a prayer than lyrics to a song. It's like Andrew leading us to pray together in exhortation to God to not forget about those who seem to have b...

Bethany Thompson's second single, 'All We Want,' comes from a prayer, and reminds us of God's immense power and presence. This song is so fitting for this Christmas day, as it sends a message of hope. Hope has a name, a name so powerful that demons tremble at His name… the name of our King - Jesus.  The lyrics lead our hearts and focus back to the source of the ultimate gift to mankind, our Prince of Peace and Almighty King. All of creation bows in awe of His grace. His glory surrounds us, and in His presence we are healed and changed. The chorus reverently repeats, "All we want is You," declaring what hopefully is also your deepest desire, for God's presence in your life. He is the Hope that is ready to be part of your life if you just open your heart and invite Him in.  The bridge is so beautiful and is filled with devotion, singing praise, and where every step is taken for Him. The lyrics echoe our commitment to live for Jesus by aligning our hearts an...

Kyler Martinson's 'Immanuel' was triggered by a season where Kyler was feeling very alone and was discovering more of who God is, how personal He is, and the beauty and mystery of his heart for us. While Kyler was struggling with feeling alone, he felt the closeness of God and realized that a relationship with God is not only very personal… He is with us. A rough draft of the song was recorded in the quiet stairways of his church, a song that emphasizes one of the names of God, "Immanuel," meaning God with us. The lyrics beautifully juxtapose God's endless glory with His intimate love for us. How He loves us despite all of our flaws and the choices we make in our lives. He marvels at how the Creator of all chooses to dwell among us and hold us close. The song reflects on the wonder of God's holy and immense nature, and at the same time His desire to be near us and strengthen us, underscoring the mind-blowing nature of His love. May His name, 'Immanuel,...

North Palm Worship, well known for their heartfelt worship, offers a fresh rendition of "The First Noel," featuring Deborah Hong. This is one of the most famous carols: a herald proclaiming the coming of Christmas. The First Noel's origins are humble.  The song came about during the Proto-Renaissance (the period that led into the Renaissance), during the 13th or 14th century. The First Noel was written as a way to express the excitement and wonder of Christmas. Hundreds of years ago, during a time without internet or phones, the people of Cornwall sang it in the streets as a way to spread hope and joy. The world may look very different today, but we still gather to sing the song for the same reasons. The song is a testament to the fact that no matter what the earth looks like, no matter how much time passes, the encouraging story of Jesus will always connect with the hearts that are desperate for Him. This rendition is also a call to unite in worship and sing this song fo...

The productions of Divine Vibes are especially for lovers of the Progressive House and CEDM genres, and this track is a great addition to Christmas CEDM playlists. "Prince of Peace" by Divine Vibes is a fresh and energetic beat blended with the timeless prophecy from Isaiah 9:6. A message that aligns with the Christmas spirit and reminds us Who the true source is of peace, hope, and joy - Jesus Christ.  The lyrics capture the promise of Jesus' birth, with energetic rhythms and atmospheric synths that create a captivating soundscape. The lyrics are simple and reinforce some of the powerful names of Jesus that we commonly hear during this time of the year: Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The lyrics bring our focus back to the most comforting truth on earth: "He is our Wonderful Counselor!"  May this track remind you that amid all of the chaos in life, lasting peace isn't found in worldly solutions. Lasting peace can only be found in Him. M...

In Beth Merill's song "Messiah," she recounts the Christmas story with a beautiful pop/CCM melody. Beth indicated that the lyrics were inspired by Luke 2:11–14 and that she wanted to tell the story of Christ's birth in a way that was both personal and relatable. She loved the process of writing and producing this song, beginning back in November 2019. This version includes a hint of Christmas bells and cosy winter vibes.  The lyrics recount the incredible journey of Jesus, who left His heavenly throne to become our Savior. Jesus, the Light, came into a world that was filled with darkness and made it possible for us to be redeemed from all of our sins and return to the Father. The chorus is cheerful and invites us to join the angels as they worship and celebrate the true Light that came to the world on that Holy Night.  His birth isn't just a historical event; His coming to earth continues to be relevant to each and every one of us. May His gift to mankind also bri...

Maria Segerholm released a fresh acoustic rendition of "One Child." The original song is by Mariah Carey and co-written with Marc Shaiman, a song that deeply touched Maria since she performed it at Christmas concerts with orchestra, choir, and children's choir in Jönköping, Sweden, back in 2016. Maria normally releases original works, and this year she decided to step outside her comfort zone and release an acoustic cover of a well-known song. She not only hopes that this rendition will be appreciated by fans new and old, but even more important, that this song will shift your focus to Jesus as the true reason for the season. The lyrics retell the story of Jesus's birth, from the angel's visit to Mary to her journey to Bethlehem and Jesus' humble birth in a manger. Each verse reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas. The chorus emphasizes the key message of this story: "One child can change the world." Maria passionately shares this message of ho...

"Glory to God" by Shawn Thomas is a Christmas song with a message that can lift your spirits just, as the angels did on that night that Christ was born. The message of the song was inspired by the birth narrative that we can read in Luke 2:13–14. Shawn beautifully captures the feelings of celebration and reverence of that moment that changed everything for humanity.  The song takes us from the humble manger all the way to the cross, emphasizing the importance of God's incredible gift of grace. Feel reverence with lines like "In a stable wrapped in love's embrace, Heaven's gift - promise of grace," and share the joy of angels as they sing "Glory to God in the highest, Peace on earth, goodwill to men."  Beautiful lyrics that beautifully wrap up some of the highlights of Jesus' life, from celebrating His birth to His divine mission to His ultimate victory and gift to all people. Shawn's message is filled with faith and joy, and helps us fe...

This week we're blessed with a fresh take on the nativity story with the album "whispering HOPE 5", the latest release by whispering HOPE. This album takes us on a reflective journey through the nativity story, offering us insights from the perspectives of the Israelites, Mary, Joseph, the Angels, and the Shepherds. I'll briefly introduce each of the tracks, and I encourage you to check out the lyrics to really grasp the meaning and intent of each song. "The Coming Light" sets the tone by celebrating Jesus as the Light of the world. This song not only speaks of His arrival but also encourages us to find hope and peace through His presence, and let Him guide us throughout our lives, including our darkest moments. "Magnify" gives us a modern take on Mary’s Magnificat. The takeaway is to celebrate God's endless mercy and faithfulness, and it encourages us to praise God's name with gratitude and in recognition of everything He has done. The s...

Sara Niemietz and Robby Robinson's latest release, "Unto Us," just dropped. It's a song that captures the real reason for the season. Yes, it is about a huge gift… but not the kind of gift that you and I are capable of giving. "Unto Us" is about the greatest gift of all, the divine gift of Jesus, and what this gift really means. Christmas is such a special season, especially if you appreciate what we're really celebrating! Sara Niemietz and Robby Robinson invite us to join as they musically celebrate the deep hope, love, and peace that His birth has brought to us. A celebration where we may reflect on Isaiah's prophecy and the fulfillment of God's promise in the birth of Christ.  With lines like "Unto us, Heaven's gift of hope" and "Emmanuel, God with us," we may feel the warmth and joy of God's love right in the middle of life's challenges. It's about accepting the "Peace" that the angels announced a...

Tammie Lecque releases a soulful rendition of "Silent Night," and we're confident that you not only enjoy listening but also love to know how this rendition came together. The inspiration for this rendition started under the shower. Tammie was doing some vocal warm-ups and playfully started to include little bits of Christmas music. The melody stuck in her head and continued to shape as she was making dinner and during her drive to work.  This creative process brought Tammie back to her roots. Rooted in her family's a cappella tradition as "The Bellamy Spiritual" (that was founded by her grandfather Pastor Chavis Bellamy) and inspired by various genres, such as jazz and soul, Tammie's rendition of 'Silent Night' brings a fresh, soulful take to this beloved classic. The lyrics remind us of that holy night where "all is calm, all is bright" as the tender infant Jesus slept peacefully. The lyrics speak of the shepherds' awe and the he...

Thonia's "Baby Jesus" passionately captures the joyful message and miracle of Christmas. The song is a mix of pop-folk and contemporary Christian vibes, with a few off-notes that remind us that only God is perfect, that shares the true essence of Christmas - Jesus' humble birth. The melody is fresh and feels like a dance of joy, pulling you closer to the reason why Jesus came to earth as a baby. The lyrics look at that moment when Jesus was born in a manger, a moment overlooked by many yet orchestrated by heaven. Thonia highlights the amazing truth that it is this baby, swaddled and serene, who would grow up to become our Lord, Savior, and King. Her artful lyrics and passionate presentation invite us to join this celebration. She calls us to "light up the fire" and "raise up the banner" with infectious energy, spreading the good news of Jesus to the world. At the same time, the song also encourages us to have a closer look at our own lives, living ...

Mama Tee, Awipi, and Tina Philips released an inspiring medley of timeless Christmas classics, 'The Angel's Message (Afro Christmas).' A medley that beautifully blends familiar melodies like "Ding Dong Merrily on High," "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," "Gloria in Excelsis Deo," and "The Little Drummer Boy," songs with lyrics that are centered around the angel Gabriel's messages.  The lyrics tell how the shepherds were watching their sheep at night when the angel Gabriel came with the news that Jesus had been born. The praise, "Glory to God in the highest," sets the tone for a most inclusive celebration that is passed down through the generations. Gabriel's message brings hope and divine love, reminding us that Christ's birth is a fulfillment of prophecy, a gift of peace, and a reconciliation for humanity. It's a message to cherish every day of our lives.  As the song declares Jesus as Immanuel, "God with...

KellyMarie's "Hey! A Child Is Born!" is just the Christmas song we all need this year! The lyrics and melody tend to stick in your mind, and it could easily become your new holiday favorite. With its fun-loving, whimsical vibe inspired by the book "Best Christmas Pageant Ever," the song takes you from a familiar Christmas scene to the true meaning behind Christmas, that life-changing moment of salvation.  The song starts with charming verses, setting the scene of this festive season: "Now it's Christmas time again / And I know what to expect / Frosty windows, hints of peppermint / And don't forget the pageant." You can almost smell the peppermint and feel the magic in the air. The song builds up to an energetic chorus that declares, "HEY! Unto you a child is born / Tell everybody… Christ is born today. HEY!"   KellyMarie's passion for music shines through the entire song, combining her love for music with her deep faith. The song...