Michael W. Smith - The One Lyrics
Lyrics
May every light that glistens
On every Christmas tree
May every decoration
We hang for all to see
May all our old traditions
We choose to carry on
The memories we cherish
Remind us of the One
As we rest together
Beside the fire's glow
And read the greatest story
The one that won't grow old
The joy of Christmas morning
With family in our home
And all the children's laughter
Remind us of the One
Behold, gaze in wonder
Jesus the promised one
Hope of glory born to save
We rejoice this Christmas day
This Christmas we'll remember
With every song we sing
With every gift that's given
And every gift received
This Christmas we'll remember
The one who came for us
Love was born, our Savior
Jesus, God with us
Behold, gaze in wonder
Jesus the promised one
Hope of glory born to save
We rejoice this Christmas day
Behold, gaze in wonder
Jesus the promised one
Hope of glory born to save
We rejoice
We rejoice on this Christmas day
Video
Michael W. Smith - The One That Really Matters ft. Kari Jobe (Live)
Meaning & Inspiration
Michael W. Smith's song "The One" serves as a poignant reminder during the Christmas season, gently steering focus from the outward trappings to the profound spiritual core. Recorded with Kari Jobe in a live version titled "The One That Really Matters," released on May 13, 2014, the song uses familiar holiday imagery—glistening lights, festive decorations, cherished traditions, family gatherings, the warmth of a fire, and children's laughter—not as ends in themselves, but as pointers. Each sensory detail and beloved custom is framed as a catalyst, designed to "remind us of the One." This central theme is woven throughout, connecting the temporal celebrations to the eternal significance of Christ's birth.
The lyrics consistently reinforce the identity of "The One" as Jesus Christ. He is explicitly named as "Jesus the promised one," the "hope of glory born to save," and the "Savior, Jesus, God with us." The song highlights the redemptive purpose of His coming – "born to save" and that "Love was born." It calls for a response of "Behold, gaze in wonder" and "rejoice this Christmas day." The emphasis is not just on observing traditions but on remembering the *reason* for the season, ensuring that the act of giving and receiving gifts, and the singing of carols, all lead back to gratitude for the ultimate gift of salvation.
This message resonates deeply with various biblical themes surrounding the Nativity. The concept of Jesus as "the promised one" echoes prophecies found in the Old Testament, such as Isaiah 7:14 foretelling the virgin birth of Immanuel, meaning "God with us," and Isaiah 9:6 describing the coming Messiah with titles including Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. The phrase "hope of glory" aligns with New Testament descriptions of Christ, such as in Colossians 1:27, where He is referred to as "Christ in you, the hope of glory." The birth narrative itself, recounted in Luke 2 and Matthew 1, details the arrival of the Savior, fulfilling ancient promises and bringing salvation to the world. The song's call to rejoice reflects the heavenly host's declaration of "Glory to God in the highest" and the shepherds' response of praising God (Luke 2:14, 20).
Ultimately, "The One" serves as a beautiful and worshipful reflection on the meaning of Christmas. It takes the familiar elements of the holiday and transforms them into signposts pointing towards the central figure of Christ. By connecting the joy, wonder, and traditions of the season to the birth of Jesus, the song inspires listeners to move beyond mere celebration to heartfelt remembrance and adoration of the Savior, acknowledging that He is indeed "The One" who truly matters.