During the thirteenth century, one individual wrote down the words to what would later develop into the lyrics of the beloved Christmas carol, “Adeste Fideles,” also known as “O Come All Ye Faithful.” While it is believed that John Francis Wade is the one responsible for bringing these lyrics to the Christian church, uncertainty remains as to who is responsible for the accompanying tune. Still, one thing will always remain crystal clear: this song is a call for everyone to adore the King of kings.

The year was 1745. Wade found himself in the midst of a battle between the Church of England and the Church of Rome. During this time, many Catholics were forced to hide their faith from those around them. Others fled the country, seeking religious freedom. Wade chose to leave everything behind on a desperate quest for freedom to worship the one true and living God.

Having found refuge as a music teacher for British Roman Catholic exiles in Douai, France, he worked diligently to preserve documents of the church and to transcribe sacred music that otherwise may have been lost forever. God rewarded his persistence by giving him the ability to write many songs, including the much-loved Christmas carol, “O Come All Ye Faithful.”

Just imagine. Wade was surrounded by trouble on every side, being persecuted for his faith and eventually having to flee his home country. Yet, in the midst of this turmoil, he stood firm in his walk with God. He knew giving God praise and adoration was the key to having a meaningful and happy life. Despite the many trials he faced, he remained faithful to God.

In the fourth verse of Wade’s cherished song, the lyrics state, “O Jesus! Forever be thy name adored.” He did not write, at Christmastime be thy name adored. Instead, he wrote “Forever.” Most assuredly, Wade knew that we should adore the name of Jesus continually, every moment of the day, all year.

People often say they adore their parents, their children, their spouse, and their friends. They even adore their homes, pets, automobiles, smartphones, clothing, you name it. Think about the things you own and the people you know. What or whom do you truly adore? Where do you direct your complete admiration?

While there is nothing wrong with loving our family or even our furry friends, we need to ensure we reserve our total adoration for the only one who is truly worthy. Although the modern word, adore, may simply mean to be particularly fond of someone or something, the word adore originates from the Latin word adorare, which means “to worship.” I love my family very much, but I would never worship them. Do you actually worship people or things? Let us be careful to reserve our adoration for the only One whom we should worship.

God is the One who deserves all of our glory, honor, and praise. Jesus said we should only worship the Lord our God and serve Him only (Luke 4:8). God is our Creator. Psalm 100:3 says, “Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.” Shouldn’t we desire to worship the One who created us? He is our Heavenly Father. Because of His great love for us, He sent His Son Jesus to be born in a manger. Jesus lived on earth for thirty-three years until He was crucified for the forgiveness of our sins. He rose again the third day and is praying for us at this very moment (Rom. 8:34). No one is more deserving of our complete adoration.

“O Come All Ye Faithful” was originally intended to be a hymn sung year-round in the church. When I hear this beloved song, I cannot help but feel overwhelmed with a renewed joy due to the gratefulness in my heart for the love that Jesus Christ has shown to me every day of my life. That is why I do not see this song as a Christmas carol, but instead, as an anthem for all seasons. We should give praise to Jesus Christ 365 days a year.

No matter the season, let us remember to place our focus on Jesus Christ, the true reason for Christmas. Christmas is not a season meant for gift-giving, party planning, and cookie baking. This glorious holiday season centers on the birth of Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords. And so, I invite you to join me. “O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!”

Is there something in your life that is preventing you from praising the name of Jesus Christ continually? Are you discouraged, due to a failed marriage, difficult financial circumstances, or wayward children? Is there something that causes you to be stressed or even depressed? Or is there a dark secret deep inside your heart that no one knows about but God? No matter what you are going through, Jesus Christ cares about you. He loves you more than you could ever imagine. He loved you so much that He gave His life on a cross to wash away your sins. Remember to take time to thank Him for His unending love and the sacrifice He made just for us. Give Him the adoration and praise He is so worthy of receiving, not just on Christmas, but every day of the year.

Do not let the trials of this life weigh you down. Talk to Jesus and tell Him all of your worries, cares, and fears. He wants to help you. He will bear your burdens. You do not have to do it alone. Wherever you are, just lift your hands and praise Him for the blessings He has given you. Ask Him to give you wisdom to handle all of life's twists and turns. Stand amazed at how God works in your life when you are in tune with His still, small voice. Listen to Him. Trust Him. Worship Him. Adore Him!

Put your trust in Jesus Christ. Jesus will cleanse your sins and fill you with peace that passes all understanding. Today is the day of salvation (2 Cor. 6:2). Romans 10:9 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Jesus loves you unconditionally. Jesus died to save you. He rose again and wants to give you eternal life. If you are looking for everlasting hope, a constant friend and help in times of trouble, pray these words:

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for loving me unconditionally. I believe You died on the cross and rose again. Please forgive me of my sins. Come into my heart and make me a new creation. I want to live for You. I want to worship and adore you forever. Help me share Your love with others.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.