1 If, while the Jewish ages
Still added to the word,
Kings, prophets, priests, and sages
Looked vainly for the Lord;
How blest are we who know him
So early in our youth;
How gladly should we show him
Our love in deed and truth!

2 If, when he came from glory,
The angels flew to sing
Redemption's opening story--
The birthday of the King:
Well may we lift our voices,
Rememb'ring how he died,
While every heart rejoices
To praise the Crucified.

3 So all who ever sought him
Have had their sins forgiven;
And even children brought him
Are welcomed home to heaven:
Look, look we all above us,
And lift our hymn on high,
For he who doth so love us
Is smiling from the sky.