Fairest of morning lights appear,

Thou blest and gaudy day [91] ,

On which was born our Saviour dear;

Arise and come away!

This day prevents His day of doom;

His mercy now is nigh,

The mighty GOD of Love is come,

The Dayspring from on high!

Behold the great Creator makes

Himself an house of clay,

A robe of Virgin-flesh He takes

Which He will wear for aye.

Hark, hark, the wise Eternal Word

Like a weak infant cries:

In form of servant is the LORD,

And GOD in cradle lies.

This wonder struck the world amazed,

It shook the starry frame;

Squadrons of Spirits stood and gazed,

Then down in troops they came.

Glad Shepherds ran to view this sight;

A quire of Angels sings;

And eastern Sages with delight

Adore this King of kings.

Join then, all hearts that are not stone,

And all our voices prove,

To celebrate this Holy One,

The GOD of peace and love.

[91] gaudy day, festival