1 Long did both kings and prophets wait
To see the Lord of glory great
Appear, to answer that great end,
To prove the fallen sinner’s friend.

2 Of Him the prophets long foretold,
The fathers wished him to behold;
Him all the nations did desire
And angels wished Him to admire.

3 Their prophecies are now fulfilled;
The glorious mystery revealed:
The Child is born, the Son is giv’n,
The Prince of life is come from Heav’n.

4 His name is Jesus Christ the Lord,
The great and everlasting Word:
He came to execute the plan,
To save the fallen race of man.

5 He is the Lord from Heaven come,
Our human nature to assume,
Our sins to bear, His blood to shed,
And bruise and crush the serpent’s head.

6 He left His glorious throne above,
And comes with pity, grace, and love:
He comes to call the sons of men,
And turn them to their God again.

7 We praise Thee, O Thou King of peace!
Who art our life and righteousness;
Thou virgin’s Son, Thou David’s Star:
No creature can Thy love declare.

8 All such are truly dead in sin,
Who feel themselves not moved within,
To join with Christians here on earth,
To show and praise the Savior’s birth.

9 Let all who dwell with hosts on high!
Engage His praise to magnify;
With all the efforts they can raise,
Thus join to sing the Savior’s praise.