Come, O long-expected Jesus,
born to set Your people free;
from our fear and sins release us,
Christ, in whom our rest shall be.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
born salvation to impart;
dear desire of every nation,
joy of every longing heart.
Joy to those who long to see thee,
Dayspring from on high, appear;
come, O promised Rod of Jesse,
of Your birth we long to hear!
O’er the hills the angels singing
news, glad tidings of a birth;
Go to Him, your praises bringing;
Christ the Lord has come to earth.
Come to earth to taste our sadness,
He whose glories knew no end;
by His life He brings us gladness,
our Redeemer, Shepherd, Friend.
Leaving riches without number,
born within a cattle stall;
this the everlasting wonder,
Christ was born the Lord of all.
Born Your people to deliver,
born a child, and yet a king;
born to reign in us for ever,
now Your gracious kingdom bring.
By Your own eternal Spirit
rule in all our hearts alone;
by Your all-sufficient merit
raise us to Your glorious throne.