A thrill of hope- the weary world rejoices,
O Holy Night, verse 1b
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!
Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born!
O night, O holy night, O night divine!
The Oxford dictionary tells us the word “kneel” is a verb, or action word, which means to “be in or assume a position in which the body is supported by a knee or the knees, as when praying or showing submission.” Such a posture humbly re-orients our bodies so that we are beneath something or someone else with greater authority than ourselves.
Because God loved us so completely (God Himself is love), He has gifted us with free will. We are free to return that love to Him or not. Where would beauty be if God’s creations were all blindly compelled into submission and loyalty? If we were forced to bow down as the royal subjects were to do with King Nebuchadnezzar and the golden statue in Daniel 3? That is not the type of devotion our God wants from us. He loves us far too much. He desires that our devoted hearts willingly choose to love Him back in adoration; awe; and, yes, voluntary submission.
A leper, synagogue official, Simon Peter, and others fell at their knees in the presence of Jesus (Matthew 8:2, 9:18; Luke 5:8). They understood who was in front of them and the reverence due to that person. That they each “fell” to their knees implies that they couldn’t help it. The action was an impulsive reflex of sorts, out of response to the glory that stood before them. They didn’t place themselves in a kneeling position as we might do when practicing yoga, playing with children, or fixing a leaky pipe. They fell, and in no lesser ways should we respond after contemplating His vast love for us. After all, God created a son so He could later be sacrificed to save us. That is love. That alone should make us fall to our knees in worship and reciprocating love.
Scripture References
Action Step
Today, on your knees if you are able, spend a few minutes just worshiping our God. Don’t ask Him for anything at this time. Worship who He is and spend quiet time with just Him.
Accompanying Playlist
All hymns referenced throughout the series found in one spot. Some versions are traditional. Others…not so much. Enjoy!
Living Simply With God 