Joy to the World: How Music Helps Us Celebrate Christmas

From the earliest days of the Christian faith, music has been woven into the story of Christ’s birth. When we reflect on the joy and wonder of Jesus Christ coming into the world, it is often music that gives voice to what words alone cannot fully express. This is especially true during Christmas, when children step onto church stages and classroom platforms to sing, recite, and reenact the greatest story ever told.

Music as a Language of Joy

Joy is at the very center of the Christmas story. The angel announced “good news of great joy,” shepherds rejoiced in the fields, and wise men traveled far to worship the newborn King. Music mirrors this joy beautifully. A joyful song can lift our spirits, unite voices, and fill a room with hope. Whether it’s a familiar Christmas hymn or a simple melody sung at home, music helps us express the gladness that comes from knowing Christ has come to dwell among us.

Sometimes our joy is too deep for spoken language. Music allows us to worship beyond words, offering our emotions, gratitude, and reverence to God. A hymn about the manger or a contemporary worship song about Emmanuel can draw us into reflection and praise, helping us focus our hearts on Christ rather than the distractions of the season.

A Tradition Rooted in Scripture

The Bible itself shows us how music plays a role in responding to God’s work. Mary’s song of praise, often called the Magnificat, overflows with gratitude and awe. The angels’ heavenly chorus—“Glory to God in the highest” (Luke 2:14)—is one of the most powerful musical images in Scripture. These moments reveal that music is a natural and faithful response to God’s goodness, especially in celebrating the miracle of Jesus’ birth.

As City Tree Christian School’s Music Director, Andrew Michel reflects on this tradition and reminds us that Christmas music is deeply rooted in both faith and family:

“Many traditions come to mind when we think of Christmas—gift giving, family gatherings, parties, decorating, among other things. But perhaps the oldest Christmas tradition is music. A tradition that traces back to the very first Christmas, when the angels announced the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ… Thank God for the gift of music! Christmas wouldn’t be the same without it!”

Children’s Christmas Programs: A Special Kind of Worship

When children sing Christmas songs—sometimes with beaming smiles, sometimes with nervous excitement—their voices reflect the pure, unfiltered joy of Christ’s birth. Through melody, rhythm, and harmony, our hearts are drawn into celebration and worship in a deeply meaningful way. These songs become genuine acts of praise, teaching both the children and those who listen about humility, love, and the miracle of God coming to earth as a child.

Andrew Michel also speaks to the lasting impact of these moments, sharing how music connects generations:

“Music has always had a very special place in my family. For years it was a family tradition to play Christmas songs on guitar while others sang along… Now, new memories are being created as I sing Christmas songs with City Tree children. My hope is that these children begin to create their own musical memories with their classmates and families.”

Music has a unique power to bring people together, and children’s Christmas programs do this beautifully. Parents, grandparents, and church members gather to watch and listen, often joining in as familiar carols fill the room. I have witnessed this joy firsthand at City Tree Christian School’s annual Christmas Program—looking out at a crowd united in celebration, proud of the students who have worked hard to play their band pieces, sing with enthusiasm, and confidently recite the Christmas story. These moments create lasting memories and strengthen faith across generations.

Carrying the Joy Forward

As we celebrate Christmas, music reminds us that the joy of Jesus’ birth does not end on December 25. Songs of praise encourage us to carry that joy into our daily lives, sharing hope, love, and peace with others. Through music, we continually proclaim the good news that Christ has come—and that is always worth celebrating.

In every note and lyric, music becomes a beautiful offering of joy. It invites us to rejoice, to worship, and to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with full hearts and lifted voices.

By: Sara Delgado, Head of School