Let sighing cease

(one verse introduction)

Let sighing cease and woe
God from on high has heard,
heaven's gate is opening wide, and lo!
the long expected Word.

Peace! through the deep of night
the heavenly choir breaks forth,
singing, with festal songs and bright,
our God and Savior's birth.

The cave of Bethlehem
those wakeful shepherds seek;
let us too rise and greet with them
that infant pure and meek.

We enter at the door
what marvel meets the eye?
A crib, a mother pale and poor,
a child of poverty.

Chaste be our love like thine,
our swelling souls bring low,
and in our hearts, O Babe divine
be born, abide and grow.

So shall your birthday morn,
Dear Christ, our birthday be,
then greet we all, ourselves newborn,
our God's nativity.

Words: Charles Coffin (1676-1749);
trans. William John Blew (1808-1894)
Music: St. Michael (Old 134th)
Meter: SM