Tuesday, December 24, 2024
In 2014, I had the privilege of attending a Christmas Eve service in Cambridge, England with a dear friend. For most church musicians, attending the famous Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at King’s College seems as unlikely as visiting Jupiter. The stars aligned for us that year and away we went.
It was a crystal clear day, cold but warm and friendly as we waited in line to enter the chapel. We met some wonderful people and enjoyed coffee and fellowship. Around 2pm, we were let into the famous chapel. It was magical. I had been there before, but this time, it felt different. This time, it felt like stepping into a dream. There was a long pause before the service was to begin, and from the back, the lowly boy chorister began the famous hymn, “Once in Royal David’s City.” It was an ineffable moment that I shall always remember.
Just being there was what it was about. I can’t remember the music, but I can remember the ambiance, the silence, being with my friend, and the Spirit of Christmas. Hearing it on the radio every year, I always imagined what it might be like to attend. When a dream turns into reality – it’s rapturous.
Whatever you dream about is your Christmas wish list. Unfortunately, I dreamed a lot of nightmares in my past, but those days are over. Now, I’m dreaming of a white Christmas. As a church musician, I always thought I’d have to wait until I was old and decrepit before I’d have a Christmas Eve free to fulfill my dream. Low and behold, at the ripe old age of 39, I realized dreams really do come true. Dream big or go home? I don’t think I have a choice. I think I’ll dream big before I go home.