The Joyful Sound of Salvation

Commissioner Lee Graves is pleased to share this Christmas message from the office of the territorial commander, written with the support of the editorial team.

“Silver bells, silver bells. It’s Christmastime in the city….” Many of us can sing along with crooner Bing Crosby’s famous tune. What many don’t know is that the silver bells are believed to refer to Salvation Army bellringers on New York City street corners. The Salvation Army has always been part of the sights and sounds of Christmas.

One of the most cherished traditions in The Salvation Army is the use of brass bands to usher in the joy of Christ’s birth during the holiday season. Their resounding melodies, played with dedication and passion, fill the air with the message of God’s love and salvation. The brass band tradition in The Salvation Army has a rich history that dates back to its very beginnings. Co-Founder William Booth recognized the power of music to reach hearts, and he saw the brass band as a way to bring the message of salvation to the people.

In many ways, Salvation Army brass bands, songsters, worship teams and other musicians serve as modern-day heralds of the good news, much like the angels who proclaimed the birth of Jesus to the shepherds on that holy night. Just as the heavenly hosts sang, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests” (Luke 2:14), our musicians proclaim the same message of peace, goodwill and salvation to all who hear their joyful melodies.

It wasn’t with a lot of fanfare that Jesus came into our world. The Nativity story, found in the Gospel of Luke, reminds us of the humble beginnings of our Saviour. In a lowly stable in Bethlehem, surrounded by animals and visited by shepherds, the King of Kings made his entrance. The circumstances of his birth may have been humble, but the significance of that moment was nothing short of miraculous.

Imagine the scene: Mary and Joseph, obedient to God’s call, welcomed Jesus into the world in a dirty stable. The angels rejoiced, the shepherds marvelled and Wise Men from the East came to worship. In the midst of poverty and obscurity, the Saviour of the world was born, bringing hope, salvation and eternal life to all who would believe.

As we listen to the Salvation Army musicians playing carols and hymns that tell the story of Christ’s birth, let us remember the simplicity and humility of that first Christmas. The Nativity story reminds us that God often works in unexpected ways and chooses the humble to confound the wise. It teaches us that God’s plan for salvation is not limited by our circumstances or expectations, but is a free gift offered to all who are willing to receive it: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

In a world filled with uncertainty, turmoil and distractions, the message of Christ’s birth remains a beacon of hope and a source of joy. Let us remember that the greatest gift we can give to others is the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. This Christmas, let our hearts be filled with gratitude for the Saviour who came to redeem us, and let our lives reflect his love and grace.

And as we hear the joyful sound of Salvation Army music, may it serve as a reminder that we are called to be ambassadors of Christ, sharing his love and salvation with those around us. Just as the shepherds heard the angels’ proclamation and hastened to see the Christ Child, let us be eager to share the message of salvation with those who have yet to hear it.

Let’s carry this message of hope, love and salvation into our communities, making this Christmas season a time of transformation and renewal for those who are touched by our ministry. May the love of Christ shine brightly through us, leading others to the manger where they, too, can find the Saviour of the world.

Commissioner Lee Graves
is the territorial commander of
the Canada and Bermuda Territory.