Christmas Thoughts

Behold! in yon low manger lies A sleeping new-born child; Whilst on its form with rapture beams A mother’s glance so mild!

Around, adoring Magi bow To own earth’s Sovereign king; Unseen by man, bright cherub forms, Rejoicing anthems sing.

For God hath chose his Temple there, The form wherein to dwell, And speak his Truth through human lips And rout the powers of hell.

Redemption’s triumph hath begun, And God’s eternal might His Son upholds, that he shall bear Temptation’s darkest night!

Naught can the mighty conquest foil, Nor failing bring, nor loss,— The hosts of hell, the foes of earth,— The passion of the cross!

A moment in the grave he lies, Then bursts the feeble chain, And rises to the throne of heaven Triumphantly to reign.

Oh! God in Christ, and Christ in God, The Father—Spirit—Son— Thee would we own our sovereign Lord, The Uncreated One!

Thy great and glorious work complete! Redeem our souls from sin, Till life in truth and goodness flows From purity within.

Thy kingdom come! Thy will be done, Thy grace to us be given! Until we fall asleep on earth To wake with Thee in heaven.