Graham Kendrick - Tonight (Glory to God) Lyrics
Lyrics
Tonight, while all the world was sleeping
A light exploded in the skies
And then, as glory did surround us
A voice, an angel did appear!
Glory to God in the highest (Men - Women echo)
And on the earth (Men)
Be peace from heav'n! (All)
Afraid, we covered up our faces
Amazed at what our ears did hear
Good news, of joy for all the people
Today, a saviour has appeared!
And so to Bethlehem
To find it all was true
Despised and worthless shepherds
We were the first to know!
Video
Tonight (Glory To God) Lyric Video - Graham Kendrick
Meaning & Inspiration
Graham Kendrick's "Tonight (Glory to God)" from his 2001 release, *Rumours of Angels / The Gift*, masterfully revisits the foundational narrative of Christmas, anchoring the familiar story in profound theological truths. The song centers on the angelic announcement to the shepherds, a pivotal moment that shattered the quietude of a Galilean night with divine revelation. Kendrick doesn't just retell the event; he immerses the listener in the sensory and emotional impact of that encounter, beginning with the startling burst of light and the overwhelming presence of glory that accompanied the angelic host. This mirrors the awe and terror experienced by the shepherds, who, upon seeing the glory of the Lord shine around them, were filled with great fear, as Luke so vividly records in his Gospel (Luke 2:9). Yet, this fear quickly gives way to an extraordinary message of "good news, of joy for all the people," signifying the birth of a Savior, Christ the Lord. This declaration directly echoes the angel's proclamation: "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:10-11). The song's power lies in its faithful adherence to this scriptural account, emphasizing the unexpected recipients of this monumental news. The choice to highlight the "despised and worthless shepherds" as the first witnesses is crucial, underscoring God's inclination to reveal His purposes to the humble and overlooked, rather than the powerful or influential of the world. This theme resonates deeply with Jesus' own ministry, which often prioritized those on the fringes of society. The refrain, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men," is not merely a beautiful sentiment but a direct quote from the angelic choir that joined the initial messenger, expanding the scope of the announcement to a heavenly multitude singing praises and proclaiming the dawning of a new era of divine favor upon humanity (Luke 2:13-14). Kendrick's composition, by focusing on this immediate, earth-shattering divine intervention and its immediate aftermath for the shepherds, invites listeners to contemplate the radical nature of the Incarnation – the King of Kings choosing to be born in such humble circumstances and to announce His arrival first to those considered insignificant. The song ultimately serves as an inspiring reminder that the Christmas story is not just a historical event but a present-day invitation to encounter God's glory and receive the peace He offers through His Son.