Thursday, Dec 18: “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” by *NSYNC
This song might be the most 90s pop song ever recorded: from the factory-assembled harmonies of Justin, JC, Chris, Lance, and Joey, to the random bursts of electric keyboard peppered throughout, to the repeating a capella chorus at the end, it really is a product of that decade.
The music video even features a cameo from Diff’rent Strokes’ Gary Coleman, who saves Christmas by delegating a flu-ridden Santa’s responsibilities to the boys of *NSYNC. This video, which supposedly featured creative input from all the band members and was filmed in a single day, showcases the boys having fun as they deliver Christmas joy across the globe… via what appears to be a soundstage in a Glamour Shots in a New Jersey mall. A standout moment is when JC Chasez delivers his line, “It’s the best time of year for the… family!” as he looks around at the random assemblage of non-union extras gathered around him.
On a more serious note, this idea of a “chosen family” has definitely taken root amongst young people. For some people who have experienced some form of trauma or abandonment, “choosing a family” has a clear appeal. When we look at what Advent is actually for, it’s a time for celebration with a family that we can choose to belong to—the church.
“Put your worries aside, open up your mind, feel the world right by your side—it’s Christmas time!” is a sentiment we can get behind, especially as we think of the body of Christ all celebrating the birth of Jesus, and recognizing our shared spiritual heritage.
Conversation starter:
“When you hear that Christmas is supposed to be the best time of year for the family, what comes to mind? Do you think that’s always true?”
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