This Christmas hymn was written by Martin Luther, the father of the reformation. It comes from “The Hymns of Martin Luther” surprisingly enough.
From the Ambrosian Christmas Hymn, “Veni, Redemptor, Gentium.”
Melody derived from the Ambrosian original, 1525.
Harmony from “The Choral Book for England,” by WM. STERNDALE BENNETT and OTTO GOLDSCHMIDT, 1865.
Saviour of the heathen, known
As the promised virgin’s Son;
Come thou wonder of the earth,
God ordained thee such a birth.
Not of flesh and blood the son,
Offspring of the Holy One,
Born of Mary ever-blest,
God in flesh is manifest.
Cherished is the Holy Child
By the mother undefiled;
In the virgin, full of grace,
God has made his dwelling-place.
Lo! he comes! the Lord of all
Leaves his bright and royal hall;
God and man, with giant force,
Hastening to run his course.
To the Father whence he came
He returns with brighter fame;
Down to hell he goes alone,
Then ascends to God’s high throne.
Thou, the Father’s equal, win
Victory in the flesh o’er sin;
So shall man, though weak and frail;
By the indwelling God prevail.
On thy lowly manger night
Sheds a pure unwonted light;
Darkness must not enter here,
Faith abides in sunshine clear.
Praise be to the Father done,
Praise be to the only Son,
Praises to the Spirit be,
Now and to eternity.