Songs of Christmas

"This is Holy Ground" from John Ortberg

December 26, 2025 • John Ortberg

http://becomenew.com/give Thank you for being on the journey with us. We are so grateful and plan to keep at it. We will return with FRESH teaching from John on January 1st and then again January 19th for our new series: NO CONDEMNATION. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new

Why Jesus Was Born in a Manger

December 25, 2025 • John Ortberg • Luke 2:7, Matthew 1:21, 1 Peter 5:8

Away in a Manger isn’t just a sweet song. It’s a radical message of hope. In today’s episode, John explores why Jesus was born in a manger, what that says about who He came for, and how Christmas answers the question we all carry: what will become of us? This episode is tender, thoughtful, and quietly powerful. A reminder that Jesus meets us where we are and heals what’s broken. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W Away in a Manger by Silk Fusion - MB01F2FERX0HU6D

Your Soul Needs to Feel It's Worth

December 24, 2025

This song doesn’t just sound beautiful. It tells the truth about you. In today’s episode, John unpacks O Holy Night and explores what it means for the soul to feel its worth. From the Bible’s understanding of the soul to the surprising backstory of this carol, this episode offers a new way to talk to God, to yourself, and to others. If you’ve ever questioned your value, this one is for you. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W O Holy Night by Sita - MB01XENMBCWK17Y

The Surprising History Behind "Go Tell It on the Mountain"

December 23, 2025 • John Ortberg • Isaiah 52:7, Luke 4:18–19, Matthew 5:10–12

This Christmas song isn’t just festive — it’s revolutionary. In today’s episode, John unpacks Go Tell It on the Mountain, tracing its roots through Scripture, the African American spiritual tradition, and the long struggle for freedom and dignity. From Isaiah’s prophecy to Watch Night services to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final Christmas sermon, this episode reminds us that good news is meant to be shared — and lived. Especially by those who think good news isn’t for them. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W Go Tell it on the Mountain by Tim Williams

The Outsiders Were the First to Follow the Light

December 22, 2025 • John Ortberg • Matthew 2, John 1:4–9, 2 Corinthians 4:6

The “three kings” weren’t kings at all. They were outsiders. In today’s episode, John explores We Three Kings and what this carol teaches us about light, belonging, and letting go of what weighs us down. From sunrise reflections to strange gifts to the invitation to “travel light,” this episode is a reminder that no one is beyond the pale and everyone is welcome in the light of Christ. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W We Three Kings by Jesse Brown - MB01DM5ZKFG5OBZ

Why the Birth of Jesus Changed the World

This Christmas Song Makes Room for Lament

December 19, 2025 • John Ortberg • Luke 2, Isaiah 53, Matthew 11:28

This is a Christmas episode for anyone carrying trouble. In today’s teaching, John explores I Wonder as I Wander, a carol born out of poverty and lament, and reflects on how suffering can sometimes become a meeting place with God. If life feels uncertain, confusing, or heavy right now, this episode offers permission to bring your whole heart to Jesus and wonder in the wandering. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W I Wonder as I Wander by Unknown

The Quiet Invitation at the Heart of Christmas

December 18, 2025 • Psalm 46:10

This Christmas carol was born out of a broken organ, a quiet night, and a simple guitar. In today’s episode, John explores Silent Night and invites us into a deeper understanding of intimacy, stillness, and God’s gentle presence. If you’re longing for connection with God or with others, this episode is a reminder that intimacy often begins in silence. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W Silent Night by Chad Lawson - MB01EA29RJHSL75

Why This Carol Isn’t About Feeling Merry

December 17, 2025

This Christmas carol isn’t saying “be happy.” It’s saying “be held.” In today’s episode, John unpacks the surprising meaning behind God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen and why this ancient song speaks directly to our need for strength, belonging, and hope. If you’ve been craving control but need peace instead, this one might change how you hear Christmas. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Jesse Brown - MB01VRELDTNZMBD

How to Have a "Merry Little Christmas"

December 16, 2025 • John Ortberg • Luke 2, Isaiah 9, 2 Corinthians 4:6–7

Today John sits down at the piano and plays Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, then talks honestly about expectations, hope, and real life during the holidays. This episode isn’t about a perfect Christmas. It’s about a real one. The kind where joy shows up in ordinary moments and Jesus meets us right where we are. If the season feels full or messy or both, this one is a gentle reminder that there is still treasure here. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane

Why Christmas Is About Presence, Not Fixing

December 15, 2025 • John Ortberg, Rolf Geyling • Romans 8, Matthew 25:36–40, Isaiah 7:14

Today John sits down with Rolf Geyling, President of the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission, for an honest and moving Advent-conversation about suffering, generosity, and what it really means to be present. From powerful stories of life transformation to Rolf’s own journey through profound loss, this episode reminds us that Christmas is not about fixing pain, but about Emmanuel. God with us. Especially when life hurts. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W O Christmas Tree by Chad Lawson - MB011CPPOUDHFOQ

What Handel Saw When He Wrote “Hallelujah”

December 12, 2025 • John Ortberg • Isaiah 9:6–7, Revelation 19, Psalm 150

Today John tells the incredible story behind Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus and why this single word shows up 48 times without losing its power. From Handel’s health collapsing to writing a 260-page oratorio in 24 days to the deep meaning of the word hallelujah itself, this episode is an invitation to let your whole life become an act of praise. If you need joy, strength, or a reminder that Jesus comes to imperfect people, this will speak to you. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W The Hallelujah Chorus arranged and performed by Ben Howe

Why the Christmas Story Keeps Spreading 2000 Years Later

December 11, 2025 • John Ortberg • Luke 2, Matthew 2, Isaiah 9:6

Today John looks at the carol Angels From the Realms of Glory and asks what kind of power we are living in. Through the remarkable story of James Montgomery and a deep dive into the upside down “power rankings” of the Christmas story, we learn why real power is not control but love. This episode will help you see Jesus differently and invite you into one simple act of altruism today. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W Angels from the Realm of Glory by Tim Williams

Why the Angels Say “Hark!” at Christmas

December 10, 2025 • John Ortberg • Luke 2, Romans 5:6

Today John takes us inside one of the richest carols ever written, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, and unpacks the deep meaning behind Wesley’s lyrics. From ancient words like welkin to the difference between chronos and kairos to what it really means that God took on flesh, this episode is an invitation to pay attention again. If you need peace, hope, healing, or a reminder that God is with you today, this one is going to speak right to your heart. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W

The Missing Character in the Christmas Story

December 9, 2025 • John Ortberg, John Witvliet • Luke 1:35, Luke 2, Galatians 4:6

Today John sits down with worship scholar Dr. John Witvliet to talk about the character we almost never include in our Christmas story. This episode uncovers why the Holy Spirit is actually central to Advent and why ancient prayers, global worship traditions, and even YouTube Christmas festivals can deepen our spiritual life right now. Come ready for fresh insight, a little history, and a reminder that Advent is about longing and joy held together. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT US at 855-888-0444 EMAIL US at mailto:connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at http://becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://http://www.facebook.com/share/g/1cnqywvp9s 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://http://www.instagram.com/become.new Music Credits: We Wish You a Merry Christmas by Chad Lawson - MB01M3YAWW2VF7W O Come O Come Emmanuel by Christopher Wohrle - MB014N7DOCWGCCY

The Stories and Spirit Behind the Carols We Love