Alabanzas al Rey

Marcela Gándara's 'Alabanzas al Rey' is a song of worship and adoration, reflecting the Christian tradition of praising the birth of Jesus Christ. The lyrics are a heartfelt expression of devotion, painting a picture of the nativity scene and the reverence it inspires. Gándara, known for her emotive voice and spiritual compositions, delivers a piece that resonates with the faithful, encapsulating the joy and solemnity of the Christmas story.

The song begins with a personal approach, as the singer offers herself in a state of humility before God. The imagery of the 'cielo se viste de gala' (the sky dressed in finery) suggests a celestial celebration, indicating that the heavens themselves are rejoicing at the birth of Christ. The reference to the 'humilde pesebre' (humble manger) in Bethlehem where the 'rey' (king) is born, underscores the paradox of the divine being born in the most modest of circumstances, a core tenet of the Christmas narrative.

The chorus, 'Alabanzas al rey' (Praises to the king), repeated throughout the song, serves as a call to worship and a reminder of the purpose of the nativity—to honor the 'rey de Israel' (king of Israel), a title for Jesus. The mention of shepherds and wise men coming to offer adoration, along with angels singing a 'nueva canción' (new song), reflects the biblical account of Jesus' birth, where various figures come to pay homage. The song concludes with the proclamation of 'Emmanuel,' a name meaning 'God with us,' further emphasizing the incarnation of God as a human and the hope that this event represents for believers.