Classic Poem

In a country far, far away,
Far beyond the rolling sea,
To the little town of Bethle'em
Shepherds wond'ring came to see
Him of whom the heavenly choir
Sang with gladness, sang with might,
Of His birth and of His glory
On that holy sacred night.

Loud those Judean hills re-echoed,
Loud and joyously they rang,
What the angel choir so sweetly
And so gladly, gladly sang.
Sang they of the Father's mercy
Who to us the Christ-babe gave
For our own and full redemption,
Mercy rich and free to save!

It is not ours to listen now
To a host of angels sing
Loud and sweet the welcome tidings
Which to earth they gladly bring,
Nor ours with wonderment to gaze
O'er a manger cradle low,
As did once those pious shepherds
In Judea long ago.

For the Redeemer that was born
In that country far away,
His coming has not been forgot,
Still He lives and reigns to-day.
Oh, holy one of Bethlehem,
Come be born in us to-day,
" Love divine, all love excelling, "
In our hearts hold perfect sway.