Old Tune

I read an interesting tidbit yesterday about a Christmas carol that I have been humming for years, in fact I do know most of the words as you most likely do. This beautiful Christmas tree is our National Tree decorated by our school children from all over our country. There isn't any 'partridge in the pear tree' that I can see but I am betting the words are there somewhere.

It seems that back in 1558 to 1829 Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith. I was about to say I didn't know that, but if I think, it was one of the reasons those folks came to the new world for religious freedom. It seems that someone wrote a carol as a catechism song for young Catholics and it is amazing when you stop and think of the Twelve Days of Christmas.

1. The Partridge in the Pear Tree is Jesus Christ; 2. Turtle Doves are the Old and New Testaments; 3. French hens are Faith, Hope and Love; 4.Calling Birds are the Four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. 5. Golden Rings recalled the Five Books of the Old Testament; 6. Geese a-laying are the six days of creation. 7. swans a-swimming are the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit . . . Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contributions, Leadership and Mercy. 8.Maids a-milking are the eight Beatitudes. 9. ladies dancing are the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit . . .
Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness. 10.Lords a-leaping are the Ten Commandments. 11. Pipers piping stood for eleven faithful disciples. 12. drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles Creed.

WOW ! ! Someone had a brain and used it. What a wonderful way to teach the children their faith in spite of the protesters who wanted to do away with God . . . now that seems a bit familiar as the current protesters want God out of our lives. I am not clever enough to come up with a song for our children to sing and there is no place to take off to and start a new world unless outer space is it. Right now we can't afford the ticket price, although I am sure the thought has passed through our minds now and then. I guess we will have to fight for our rights and we know it has been done before and will again. but not if we do not stand up for what we believe.

So when you are humming this particular Christmas carol, remember its message and sing it out with gusto . . . keep in mind no one has the right to dictate, change or destroy what we have built over our lifetime. Too many have died to protect our rights. Make sure you keep Christ in Christmas . . . sing loudly, it is okay.