THE BELLS OF CHRISTMAS
(Carl C.N. Balle) (1806-1855)


The bells of Christmas chime once more;
The heavenly guest is at the door
He comes to earthly dwelling still
With new year gifts of peace, good will

This world though wide and far outspread,
Could scarcely find for you a bed
Your cradle was a manger stall
No pearl no silk no kingly hall

Now let us go with quiet mind,
The swaddled babe with shepherds find,
To gaze on him who gladdens them
The lovliest flow'r of Jesse's stem

Oh join with me, in gladness sing,
To keep our Christmas with our King,
Until our song, from loving souls,
Like rushing mighty water rolls!

O patriarchs' Joy, O prophets' Song
O Dayspring bright, awaited long
O son of Man, incarnate Word Great
David's Son, great David's Lord

Come, Jesus, glorious heav'nly guest,
And keep your Christmas in our breast
Then David's harpstrings, hushed so long,
Shall swell our jubilee of song.


(Contributed by Ferda Dolunay - November 2005)