Before Christ
Long did both kings and prophets wait
To see the Lord of glory great
Appear to answer that great end
To prove the fallen sinner's friend.
Before Christ came
Of Him the prophets long foretold
The fathers wished him to behold;
Him all the nations did desire
And angels wished Him to admire.
Before Christ came
Before Christ came
Their prophecies are now fulfilled;
The glorious mystery revealed:
The Child is born the Son is giv'n
The Prince of life is come from Heav'n.
His name is Jesus Christ the Lord
The great and everlasting Word:
He came to execute the plan
To save the fallen race of man.
He is the Lord from Heaven come
Our human nature to assume
Our sins to bear His blood to shed
And bruise and crush the serpent's head.
He left His glorious throne above
And comes with pity grace and love:
He comes to call the sons of men
And turn them to their God again.
We praise Thee O Thou King of peace!
Who art our life and righteousness;
Thou virgin's Son Thou David's Star:
No creature can Thy love declare.
All such are truly dead in sin
Who feel themselves not moved within
To join with Christians here on earth
To show and praise the Savior's birth.
Let all who dwell with hosts on high!
Engage His praise to magnify;
With all the efforts they can raise
Thus join to sing the Savior's praise.