Over the last couple of years, one sibling band has taken the Christian music world by storm. They wow’d us all with their breakout single, “Rise Up (Lazarus)” and followed it up with the delightful anthem, “Yes He Can.” But now in this Christmas season, Cain releases a collaboration that has garnered the attention of the Life 90.5 staff. Craig, Mandy and others agree that “Wonderful” is their favorite new Christmas song this year. Together, let’s look at the song, the Scriptures, and how the names of Jesus referenced can comfort us this season.
ABOUT "WONDERFUL"
Nearly all your typical Christmas songs repeat the familiar notion that “it’s the most wonderful time of the year.” However, Cain takes a bit of a different look at the season. They recognize that it doesn’t feel quite so wonderful for those who’ve experienced loss this year.
But through the joy and laughter
You can feel the sadness
Cause this Christmas
Everyone’s not with us
Instead of relying on the “wonderful” Christmas cheer to get them through, they point the listener to the One we celebrate. The One who is called “Wonderful.”
I need a Wonderful
Counselor
The Mighty God, The Prince of Peace
Who’s strong enough to carry me
Immanuel
God with us
The One who’s love will never end
Oh, Jesus can you make this sеason Wonderful
The chorus of the song continues to recount some of the names of Christ recorded in Scripture. In Old Testament prophecy, Isaiah 9:6 calls the child to be born Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and Prince of Peace. Jumping over to the New Testament, the angel in Matthew 1:23 calls Him Emmanuel. But what do those names mean to you and me? Let’s take a few moments for a deeper dive.
WONDERFUL COUNSELOR
First, let’s take a close look at the adjective “Wonderful.” The Hebrew word here comes from the same word for “miracle.” It’s describing something marvelous and extraordinary, which the birth of the Messiah certainly was. However, this word specifically describes the following role of Christ as Counselor. The Hebrew word refers to giving advice.
The next time you encounter a difficult circumstance, remember that you have an alternative to handling it yourself. You not only have an Advisor to assist, but you’ve got a miraculous one. An extraordinary one. A perfect, infallible Advisor, ready to listen and guide you in the way you should go. If you’re struggling today with direction, take it all to your Wonderful Counselor.
MIGHTY GOD
How often do you use the word “mighty?” The last time you used it might have been in reference to the Power Rangers or the fictional children’s hockey team, the Ducks. But our God isn’t some sports icon or villain-fighting hero. He is the hero.
The Hebrew word that is translated as “Mighty God” is closely connected to the idea of strength as the One True God. You might have heard the children’s song that goes, “My God is so big, so strong and so mighty, there’s nothing my God cannot do.” And it’s so very true. Not only did He defeat sin and death so He could graciously offer us salvation, but He uses His power in our everyday lives. We may look at our struggles with our family, work, or finances with defeat and despair. But nothing is impossible for our Mighty God who promises to take care of His children (Matthew 6:25-34).
PRINCE OF PEACE
As Christmas approaches, do you find yourself extra busy? Your to-do list grows daily as you bake goodies for church gatherings and work parties. Then you must deep clean the home before the in-laws arrive. Then you have to prepare the kids or grandkids for their school Christmas pageant. And somehow, you must still find time to complete your Christmas shopping. Are you stressed just thinking about it, too?
Thankfully, we can have peace because of Jesus. One way He provides peace is by becoming our reconciliation with the Father (Isaiah 53:5). He also makes peace between people (Ephesians 2:11-22). But maybe the peace you need is the one you have to let rule in your heart today.
Colossians 3:15 says, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” If anxiety and stress are sitting on the throne of your heart this busy Christmas season, it’s time to kick them out. Let the Prince of Peace take His rightful place. Exchange the frantic madness of the season for a thankful peace as we reflect on the gift God gave us that very first Christmas.
IMMANUEL
Surely every Christmas, you hear that same carol sung in church or played on the radio. “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” But have you ever thought about what that name means? Thankfully, you don’t have to be a Greek, Hebrew or biblical scholar to understand it. In Matthew 1:23, it’s spelled out quite clearly. “God with us.”
If you’re dealing with significant heartbreak and loss this Christmas, you may feel quite lonely as you notice the empty chair. That loved one isn’t with us any longer, but the Lord promises to be with us always, even to the end of the age (Matthew 28:20). It may not fix your wounded heart in time for Christmas dinner, but His presence certainly makes the holiday a little more Wonderful.
"WONDERFUL" BY CAIN
What do you think about the song? Tell us in the comments!
4 thoughts on “Cain’s Christmas Song Reminds Us He Is Indeed “Wonderful””
Awesome 👍👍💞💞💞💯💯
We’re so glad you enjoyed this blog, Valerie! We’re praying your Christmas is “wonderful”!
Isaiah 9:6 is one of my favorite verses! I enjoyed this song by Cain putting this verse to music.
We love it too! Anytime Scripture is put to music, we just adore it! Merry Christmas, Laura!