ALL HAIL TO THEE, O BLESSED MORN !
(Swedish Christmas Hymn)
(Words by Johan Olaf Wallin (1814), based on the German hymn "Var
hälsad, sköna morgonstund" (1621). Translated from Swedish to English
by Ernst W. Olson in 1901. Set to the music "Wie Schön Leuchtet",
written in 1599 by Philipp Nicolai.)
All hail to thee, O blessed morn
To tidings long by prophets borne
Hast thou fulfillment given
O sacred and immortal day
When unto earth, in glorious ray
Descends the grace of Heaven
Singing, ringing, sounds are blending
Praises sending unto Heaven
For the Savior to us given
'Tis God's own Image and withal
The Son of Man, that mortals all
May find in Him a Brother
He comes, with peace and love to bide
On earth, the erring race to guide
And help as could no other
Rather gather closer, fonder
Sheep that wander, feed and fold them
Than let evil powers hold them
He tears, like other men, will shed
Our sorrows share, and be our aid
Through His eternal power
The Lord's good will unto us show
And mingle in our cup of woe
The drops of mercy's shower
Dying, buying through His passion
Our salvation and to mortals
Opening the heavenly portals
He comes, for our redemption sent
And by His glory Heaven is rent
To close upon us never
Our blessèd Shepherd He would be
Whom we may follow faithfully
And be with Him forever
Higher, nigher glory winging
Praises singing to the Father
And His Son, our Lord and Savior
