| Citation |
NYJ-N.769.161
28 Dec 1769:41 (1408)
A HYMN, FOR CHRYSTMAS-DAY.
Let cheerful smiles in ev'ry face,
Hail this returning morn,
On which to save a ruin'd race,
The Son of God was born.
Let holy love and sacred joy
Each grateful breast inflame;
Whilst choirs of angles from the sky,
His wondrous birth proclaim.
While humble shepherds watch'd by night,
Their harmless flocks to guard,
A sudden blaze divinely bright
Ov'r all the plain appear'd
Amaz`d they lift their wondering eyes,
Some strange event attend;
When glorious from the cleaving skies,
The heavenly bands descend.
In ranks of bright array they move,
And hymns of tryumph sing,
With notes of harmony and love,
The airy regions ring,
Glory to God who reigns on high.
Let earth with peace abound,
For towards the sons of men this day,
Divine good will is found.
Thus while the bright angelic throngs,
Their tuneful voices raise,
Earth from ten thousand joyful tongues
Shall echo back the praise.
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