Christmas is an odd time of year, is it not?  The dichotomy of lowly Mary and Joseph in the stable, birthing the Savior of the world as a defenseless baby in the most unpretentious surroundings imaginable juxtaposed with the mad-rush commercialism and gimmie-gimmie mentalities that plague our nation.  It can be a lot to deal with.  How do the two even make sense together?

Last week, my wife and I were a part of a production called Behold the Lamb of God, a musical re-telling of the coming of Christ into the world.  Before the main performance, there was a section called Songwriters in the Round that we were also asked to participate in.  We gladly accepted and began the process of figuring out what songs to perform that would fit within our gifting…two singers and a guitar are limited in some ways.

The standards were considered:  ”Silent Night”, “O Holy Night”, “What Child Is This” and the like were all thoughtfully scrutinized, studied and thought over.  What songs would faithfully capture this picture of great humility that is Jesus born in a manger?  What songs would adequately convey His grandeur and basic awesomeness?

“What Child is This” made the cut.  Full of revelation about this dual role of Jesus both as man and Son of God seemed absolutely fitting and perfect for a setting such as this.  Plus, I already had a good arrangement worked out that I enjoyed playing immensely.

What about that other one, though?  What would work?

“What about ‘I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas?’” my wife chimed in.  I gave her a cursory glance and continued on in pursuit of what we were really going to be singing.  I mean, who in their right mind would sing such a goofy song on such a big stage?  Who would want to do that?

Tricia would.   Read More→