Piano Demo
0:00
Hymnal Number
784Resource Type:
Keys included:
F
About this Hymn
Here we have the only well-known Epiphany or Christmas carol that tells the story of the magi but does not talk about three kings or wise men! It is a powerful carol that reminds us how it is not the size of our gifts that matters but rather the offering of our lives to the Lord Jesus. Verse 4 is one of my favorites in all hymnody.
Lyrics
Verse 1
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.
Verse 2
As with joyful steps they sped, Savior, to thy lowly bed, there to bend the knee before thee whom heav'n and earth adore; so may we with willing feet ever seek thy mercy seat.
Verse 3
As they offered gifts most rare at thy cradle 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 heav'nly King.
Verse 4
Holy Jesus, ev'ry 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.
Verse 5
In the heav'nly country bright need they no created light; thou its light, its joy, its crown, thou its sun which goes not down; there forever may we sing alleluias to our King.
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.
Verse 2
As with joyful steps they sped, Savior, to thy lowly bed, there to bend the knee before thee whom heav'n and earth adore; so may we with willing feet ever seek thy mercy seat.
Verse 3
As they offered gifts most rare at thy cradle 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 heav'nly King.
Verse 4
Holy Jesus, ev'ry 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.
Verse 5
In the heav'nly country bright need they no created light; thou its light, its joy, its crown, thou its sun which goes not down; there forever may we sing alleluias to our King.
Copyrighted lyrics may be used in corporate worship in accordance with a valid CCLI license. Lyrics should be displayed unaltered and include author and copyright information. All other uses require permission from the copyright holder.
Attribution & Copyright
Words: William C. Dix, 1859
Music: Conrad Kocher, 1838; harm. W. H. Monk, 1861, alt.
Music: Conrad Kocher, 1838; harm. W. H. Monk, 1861, alt.