About the song
Toby Keith has long been known for his unabashed patriotism, sharp wit, and storytelling prowess, and in “Jesus Gets Jealous of Santa Claus,” he turns his attention to the ever-complicated tension between faith and festivity during the Christmas season. Keith, a master of blending humor with social commentary, uses this tongue-in-cheek title to shine a light on how modern culture often relegates the sacred to the shadows in favor of the commercial. It’s a theme that resonates particularly with older generations who have witnessed the gradual shift in Christmas priorities over the decades.
In typical Toby Keith fashion, the song doesn’t come off as preachy but rather reflects a homespun wisdom, the kind shared over coffee with a knowing smile. He explores the idea that while the season ostensibly celebrates the birth of Christ, the omnipresent figure of Santa Claus often commands the spotlight. This isn’t merely a lament but a wry acknowledgment of how easily the spiritual significance of Christmas can be eclipsed by shopping lists, decorations, and holiday frenzy.
Keith’s country roots and plain-spoken lyricism make his point accessible without sacrificing depth. There’s an implicit challenge in the song: to find balance between reverence and revelry, to remember that beyond the tinsel and gifts lies a story of humility, sacrifice, and faith. He captures a sentiment that may feel increasingly rare in a world driven by consumerism—that the heart of Christmas should still beat with a spiritual rhythm, not just the jingle of sleigh bells or the rustle of wrapping paper.
“Jesus Gets Jealous of Santa Claus” is a playful yet poignant reminder of the need to reflect on our holiday traditions and priorities. In true Toby Keith fashion, it’s delivered with just enough humor to make us smile, and just enough truth to make us think.
Video
Lyrics
Layin’ back in my easy chair
Late last Christmas eve
Silent night, twinkling lights
Presents ’round the tree
I heard my little girl’s two bare feet
Comin’ down the stairs
She was sad as I looked over
Draggin’ her teddy bear
She said, now daddy, I had a dream
A little angel came down to me
She wasn’t happy like angels ought to be
She was cryin’ when she gave me the message
For all the world to hear
You know that Jesus gets jealous of Santa Claus
Sometimes this time of year
So, with her head on my shoulder
And her tears mixed with mine
I thought how little baby Jesus
Gets left out at Christmas time
It ain’t about the money
Oh, money can’t buy love
And I saw the light that Christmas night
With help from up above
She said, now daddy, I had a dream
A little angel came down to me
She wasn’t happy like angels ought to be
She was cryin’ when she gave me the message
For all the world to hear
You know that Jesus gets jealous of Santa Claus
Sometimes this time of year
She said that Jesus gets jealous of Santa Claus
Sometimes this time of year.
