Page:The Christian Year 1887.djvu/28




 * And suddenly there was with the Angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God. St. Luke ii. 13.

What sudden blaze of song Spreads o'er th' expanse of Heaven? In waves of light it thrills along, Th' angelic signal given - "Glory to God!" from yonder central fire Flows out the echoing lay beyond the starry choir;

Like circles widening round Upon a clear blue river, Orb after orb, the wondrous sound Is echoed on for ever: "Glory to God on high, on earth be peace, And love towards men of love—salvation and release."

Yet stay, before thou dare To join that festal throng; Listen and mark what gentle air First stirred the tide of song; 'Tis not, "the Saviour born in David's home, To Whom for power and health obedient worlds should come:" -

'Tis not, "the Christ the Lord:" With fixed adoring look The choir of Angels caught the word, Nor yet their silence broke: But when they heard the sign where Christ should be, In sudden light they shone and heavenly harmony.

Wrapped in His swaddling bands, And in His manger laid, The Hope and Glory of all lands Is come to the world's aid: No peaceful home upon his cradle smiled, Guests rudely went and came, where slept the royal Child.

But where Thou dwellest, Lord, No other thought should be, Once duly welcomed and adored, How should I part with Thee? Bethlehem must lose Thee soon, but Thou wilt grace The single heart to be Thy sure abiding-place.