Album Notes

The music of December. It is nostalgic, simple, and powerful. It speaks of love, family, joy, and hope. It unites us. It warms our homes. It heals our wounds. It draws me back to childhood memories. It tugs at my heart as I think of loved friends and family. It reminds me of soul stirring church programs, recitals, and concerts. The music of this season sets the backdrop for celebration, gift opening, storytelling, carol singing, and family reunions. I remember years of staying up late with my sister to open one present on Christmas Eve and then waking early the next morning to rush down to the tree. These songs take me back to the year I was married, and the first Christmas with my new wife. They flood my mind with the emotion of that snowy November night when my first child was born. I close my eyes and the sounds seem to influence all of my senses. With the start of a single melody I can smell pumpkin, pine, cinnamon, and hot chocolate. I can feel the warmth of a fire and the cold crunch of a fresh snowfall. I hear laughter and prayer. I see the blinking lights and feel the winter wind tear at my skin. Most of all the music of December marks the day that is a celebration unlike any other. On the 25th we rejoice that God became man and sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. Thank you for giving me the incredible privilege of being included in your collection of December Songs. Merry Christmas! -John