Highlands Worship stems from the worship ministry of Church of the Highlands, based in Birmingham, Alabama. Since 2001, the church has grown tremendously and now has several more locations throughout the state. The large number of unique musicians on this worship team cultivates creativity and allows for a diverse approach to glorifying our Heavenly Father. 

They have been officially releasing music since 2008 and recently shared their newest album with the world. Titled Comfort and Joy, it is a collection of Christmas music that Chris Griffin of the team says connects "well-known lyrics and melodies with contemporary production and music." We take a look at two songs off the album, below. 

NEW: "Away in a Manger"

Be near me, Lord Jesus
I ask You to stay
Close by me forever
And love me I pray

This song is the most musically diverse rendition of "Away in a Manger" I have ever heard. I love how the singers essentially share the microphone, each taking on a different portion of the verse. Then, they join together in harmony for the chorus, a brilliant portrayal of community. The blending adds a vibrant dynamic to the song that I didn't know it could have.

This song always puts my blessings into perspective because it is a paradox between Jesus' place of birth and His great majesty. A manger in a stable doesn't indicate grandeur; in fact it does quite the opposite. Nevertheless, God chose that moment to prove He can work everywhere, even in places we think are hopeless. If we could only look a little deeper, we'd see that He is always moving, even in the most desolate parts of our lives. I am so grateful that I will never have to live a day without Jesus, the Son who saved the world. 

NEW: "Silent Night"

Silent night, holy night!
All is calm, and all is bright
Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace

Highlands Worship did an excellent job on their version of this traditional tune. The piano perfectly parallels the soft voices, chorusing together about the wonder of God. The notes offer me a breath of fresh air from the empty Christmas songs the world seems to cherish so much. On the contrary, I love simple melodies like this one. 

This song is a crucial factor in my definition of Christmas. I find it amazing that "heavenly peace" never fails to descend upon me when I hear it played. However, despite its breathtaking ability to ensue peace, it's not the music that does that. It's God. Don't overlook your Heavenly Father this Christmas season in favor of the flashy decorations. Without Him, there would be no Christmas. He is our Creator and Maker of peace and love. He blesses us with this beautiful time of year. Let us not forget what we are celebrating, Lord.