Midweek Musing- Peace (Advent 2024)
David M. Bailey was a vibrant 14-year survivor of a Glioblastoma brain tumor—a diagnosis that originally gave him just six months to live. Defying all odds, his incredible journey of hope and perseverance has touched the hearts of thousands around the globe. His story is one of triumph and inspiration, but it was his music that became the heartbeat of his mission. A prolific songwriter with a gift for storytelling, David poured his soul into a relentless schedule of performances, sharing his art far and wide whenever his health allowed.
I was blessed to hear him in concert on a couple of occasions, and the more you immerse yourself in his music, the more you uncover the many layers of David: survivor, poet, philosopher, theologian, comedian, activist, husband, father, friend—and, of course, a very unapologetic coffee enthusiast.
Proudly calling himself a “Presbyterian hippie folksinger,” David’s talent as a musician was undeniable, but it was his lyrics that truly resonated. His words stirred hearts and minds, weaving themes of hope, faith, and peace into melodies that linger long after the music fades.
Though David’s earthly journey ended in 2010, his legacy lives on in his music, which continues to inspire and uplift. His Christmas album remains one of my all-time favorites, brimming with warmth and meaning. One particular song from that collection, which I’m excited to share, holds a special place in my heart. Its thought-provoking lyrics reflect on peace—a theme so beautifully aligned with the Advent candle we lit this past Sunday as we continue our journey of expectation and hope.
May this song speak to you as it has to me, filling your heart with peace and joy during this sacred season as we await the Prince of Peace.
Clay
ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS
David M. Bailey
It’s been a long time since I made out a wish list,
I’ve left Santa Claus alone.
I’ve learned to be content with whatever comes my way,
Be it copper or silver or coal.
This going year I gonna break tradition and do just like my nephew and my niece.
This year I’m sending him a letter and all I want for Christmas…is Peace.
Peace on earth, Goodwill to Men.
We sing those words every single year.
This time I really mean it like I never meant before,
and I hope St. Nicholas can hear.
This year I’m going to break tradition and do just like my nephew and my niece.
This year I’m sending him a letter and all I want for Christmas… is Peace.
Some folks are gonna ask for toys and tools and gadgets and shirts and skirts and jackets lined with fleece.
I hope everyone gets exactly what they want and this year all I want…is Peace.
Last year it was patience before that it was courage before that it was for the pain to cease
This year its much more simple, though maybe not so simple cause this year all I want for Christmas…is Peace.
If I were a prophet I might ask for vision, if a prisoner Id ask for my release,
And if I were a soldier, I might ask for safety.
But I’m who I am and I’m asking for…. for peace.
Now peace can be a complicated matter.
Rumors of war may never cease.
Perhaps we just need a stronger politician or maybe a prince…
A Prince of Peace.
Well imagine that a Prince of Peace.
What do you suppose he would be wearing?
How do you suppose he would arrive?
My guess is a chariot or a long white limousine with a hundred thousand servants right behind.
Some quiet night when you least expect it.
Well, the Lamb of God will come to serve and protect.
You’ll hear no trumpet sound. You’ll hear no battle cry.
They’ll come to you soft as an angel’s lullaby.
Some quiet night, when the world’s asleep.
That’s when he’ll come the Prince of Peace.
And that’s all I want for Christmas.
Comments