Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
Words: Emma F. Pitt, in the Wreath of Praise, edited by Asa Hull (New York; Cincinnati, Ohio; & Chicago, Illinois: Daniel W. Knowles, John Church & Henry A. Sumner, 1879), page 152.
If you know where to get a good photo of Pitt (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels), or a better one of Hull,
Hark! the Christmas bells are pealing,
Carols to the early morn;
List! the echo o’er me stealing,
Unto you a Savior’s born.
Shout hosanna, chant His praises!
Hallelujahs to Him sing.
Lo! the eastern star proclaims it,
Christ is born—behold your king!
Refrain
Halelujah! hallelujah!
Halelujah!
To Christ the newborn King!
Halelujah! hallelujah!
Halelujah!
Unto Him your tribute bring!
Halelujah! hallelujah!
Halelujah! hallelujah!
Hark! there comes from heav’nly voices,
Peace on earth, good will to men
;
List! the angel host rejoices,
’Tis the Babe of Bethlehem!
In the lonely, humble manger,
Angels guard Him from the sky,
Singing as they hover over Him,
Glory be to God on high.
Refrain
See! the shepherds come adoring
Him of whom the angels sang;
Worshiping they fall before Him,
As their hallelujahs rang!
Hasten every tribe and nation,
Unto Him your tributes bring;
Rendering the heart’s oblation,
Praise your Savior, Lord and king!
Refrain