GRH 099 The Moon and Stars of Christmas Eve

(1)
Stars of ice, wheel of moonlight bright,
Shine on sheep with silv’ry light;
Humble shepherds chatting circled round,
Sit content on grassy heights;
Sudden light! Hark, the angels sing!
Shepherds crouch in awe.
Mid the clouds the angels proclaim:
God’s Son is born in Bethlehem.

(2)
Dies the song, stars and moon gently fade,
Shepherds leap for very joy;
Leave their quiet flocks homeward quickly fly,
Worship then the Holy Boy,
Wondrous news thru the streets resounds,
Glad praises fill ev’ry home.
Poor man’s Saviour, peasant’s Friend,
Comes today to Bethlehem.

(3)
Learned men, from far eastern lands,
Kneel before the Holy Child.
Bring abundant gifts, rare luxuriant,
Crowd the age worn village inn.
Miles on miles had they come to adore;
No distance seemed too far.
Boundless saving, peaceful love,
Now has come to Bethlehem.