As with gladness men of old Did the guiding star behold, As with joy they hailed its light, Leading onward, beaming bright; So, most gracious Lord, may we Evermore be led to thee. | As with joyful steps they sped To that lowly manger-bed; There to bend the knee before Him whom heaven and earth adore; So may we with willing feet Ever seek the mercy-seat. | As they offered gifts most rare At that manger rude and bare; So may we with holy joy, Pure and free from sin's alloy, All our costliest treasures bring, Christ! to thee, our heavenly King. | Holy Jesus! every day Keep us in the narrow way; And, when earthly things are past, Bring our ransomed souls at last Where they need no star to guide, Where no clouds thy glory hide. | In the heavenly country bright, Need they no created light; Thou its Light, its Joy, its Crown, Thou its Sun which goes not down, There for ever may we sing Alleluias to our King. | |