As a music journalist, I always find joy in discovering songs that captivate my heart and leave a lasting impression on my soul. One such song that holds a special place for me is “Once Upon” by Sovereign Grace Music. I remember stumbling upon this song at a friend’s house, and from the very first note, I was captivated.

Table of Contents

“Once Upon” is a beautiful track that explores the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the miraculous events that took place in Bethlehem, connecting them to the profound impact they have on our lives today.

Once upon a midnight clear

Heaven’s song broke through the air
Peace and goodwill toward men
Born now in Bethlehem

Once upon a bed of straw

Slept the Sovereign Son of God
Lord of the universe
Breathing the dust of earth

Chorus

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, our Messiah
Name above every name, gloria in the highest

Once upon a splintered cross

Jesus died to rescue us
All of our shame and sin
Nailed to the tree with Him

Once upon a brilliant day

Christ the Conqueror was raised
Heaven and nature sing
“Praise to the King of kings!”

The song opens with the line “Once upon a midnight clear.” This phrase evokes a sense of wonder and awe, just like the classic fairy tales that begin with “Once upon a time.” The author beautifully highlights how heaven’s song broke through the air, signaling the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The birth of Christ, a humble yet glorious event, ushered in peace and goodwill to all mankind.

Moving to the next verse, “Once upon a bed of straw,” we witness the astounding reality of the Sovereign Son of God choosing to be born in a manger, surrounded by the simplicity of a stable. This imagery is powerful, emphasizing the humility of Christ and His willingness to step down from the throne of the universe to breathe the dust of earth.

The chorus of the song, with its resounding declaration of Jesus as the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and Messiah, reminds us of the unrivaled power and authority that Jesus holds. His name is above every name, deserving of all glory and praise. This chorus serves as a reminder of the significance of Jesus’ birth and mission on earth.

The third verse takes us to the somber scene of the crucifixion, compelling us to reflect on the depths of Jesus’ love for us. The song acknowledges that Jesus died to rescue us from our shame and sin. It poignantly expresses how our guilt was nailed to the tree with Him, offering us forgiveness and redemption.

The final verse brings us to the glorious resurrection of Jesus, described as a brilliant day. The resurrection marks the ultimate victory over sin and death, with heaven and nature singing praises to the King of kings. This verse reminds us of the hope we have in Christ, the conqueror who defeated the grave and offers eternal life to all who believe.

“Once Upon” beautifully weaves together the different aspects of Jesus’ life, from His birth to His death and resurrection, illustrating the profound impact of His story on our lives. It has the power to stir emotions, deepen faith, and remind us of the boundless love of our Savior.

As for me, whenever I listen to this song, I am transported back to that moment in my friend’s house, where I first encountered its beauty. The melodies and lyrics still resonate deeply within me, reminding me of the incredible love that Jesus has for each and every one of us.

In conclusion, “Once Upon” by Sovereign Grace Music is a moving song that beautifully captures the meaning behind the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Its poetic lyrics and heartfelt melodies invite us to reflect on the significance of these events in our lives and to worship the King of kings.