Highlands Worship - The First Noel Lyrics + Chords
Lyrics
The first noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep
On a cold winter's night that was so deep
Noel, noel
Noel, noel
Born is the King of Israel
They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the east beyond them far
And to the earth, it gave great light
And so it continued both day and night
Noel, noel
Noel, noel
Born is the King of Israel
Noel, noel
Noel, noel
Born is the King of Israel
Noel, noel
Noel, noel
Born is the King of Israel
Noel, noel
Noel, noel
Born is the King of Israel
Born is the King of Israel
Video
The First Noel | Comfort and Joy | Highlands Worship
Meaning & Inspiration
Highlands Worship's rendition of "The First Noel," released as part of their 2021 album *Comfort and Joy*, breathes fresh life into a timeless carol, drawing listeners into the profound wonder of the Nativity. This track doesn't just recount the biblical narrative; it invites contemplation of its earth-shattering significance, mirroring the awe that must have filled the hearts of those first witnesses. The song's power lies in its direct engagement with the Gospel account, focusing on the angel's announcement to the shepherds, a pivotal moment described in Luke 2:8-14. The lyrics, while traditional, are delivered with a clarity that emphasizes the divine message conveyed. The angel's words to "certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay" underscore the humility and unexpected nature of God's grandest intervention. These were not men of influence or power, but ordinary individuals, chosen to be the first recipients of the news of the Messiah's birth. This echoes God's consistent pattern of using the humble to demonstrate His might, as seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 1:27, "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong." The celestial sign, the star shining "in the east beyond them far," is more than just a visual spectacle; it is a tangible marker of divine presence, a beacon guiding seekers to the promised King. This celestial phenomenon directly connects to the prophecy found in Numbers 24:17, "I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel." The star's luminescence, giving "great light" both day and night, symbolizes the illuminating power of Christ's arrival, dispelling the darkness of sin and ignorance. The repeated refrain, "Born is the King of Israel," serves as a powerful affirmation of Jesus' identity, not just as a historical figure but as the prophesied ruler and Savior, fulfilling the covenant promises made to the people of Israel and, by extension, to all who believe. Highlands Worship's interpretation captures the essence of this momentous event, reminding us that the birth of Jesus was a declaration of God's love and a turning point for humanity, a truth that continues to inspire hope and worship centuries later.