This carol is one of 61 on the playlist of "Carol Story," a 10-minute play that tells the story of Christ solely through lyrics of Christmas songs as dialogue. Learn More. "The First Noel" is based mostly in Luke's Chapter 2 account of the heavenly host of angels announcing the birth of Christ to shepherds. (Enjoy the story.) To get a good grasp of what happened, put yourself in place of the shepherds: You and some close pals are out camping, in your suburban backyard, or, like, hiding out on the rooftop of a parking garage. Where ever you are the sky is pretty black except for a few twinkle, twinkle little stars, because you're away from city-lights distortion. Then: Boom!![]() The sky lights up! Jackie Gleason's Ralph Kramden face appears in the super moon -- and STARTS TALKING! YOU KNOW you have not ingested any foreign, mind-altering substances. What emotions do you feel? THAT'S why Luke wrote verses 9-10 in his history report to the Gentile academic Theophilus. YOUR emotions are why the angels said, "Do not be afraid." This sentiment is captured in the lyric, The first noel was to certain poor shepherds." To "certain." Meaning, to “calm.” To reassure them attack is not imminent. Among the many meanings of the word "noel" are joy, joyous song, birth, good news. “Noel” is also “Christmas” in French, and is derived from "Nowell," in old English, the language in which "The First Noel" was originally written around 1820. The video here captures the sensibility of the angels attempting to chill the shepherds and the power of the moment. In our #CarolStory the lyrics allow the actors to adapt new characters and take the audience on the journey to Bethlehem physically and emotionally.
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The KIT 'n' Kaboodle BlogThe essays here are culled from our travels, conversations, worship experiences and discoveries. Many are reprints from our newsletter, The KIT 'n' Kaboodle, or Facebook notes over time. They're written by our ensemble, Garlan Garner, Michael Edgar Myers or Vikki J. Myers -- solo, or collectively. Categories
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