294. Behold, a rose is growing

1 Behold, a rose is growing,
of loveliest form and grace,
as prophets sang, foreknowing;
it springs from Jesse's race,
and comes a perfect flower,
in midst of coldest winter,
at deepest midnight hour.

2 Isaiah hath foretold it
in words of promise sure,
and Mary's arms enfold it -
a gentle maiden pure.
Through God's eternal will
this child to her is given
at midnight calm and still.

3 This rose, whose fragrance tender
with sweetness fills the air,
dispels with glorious splendour
the darkness everywhere.
As human, yet true God,
from sin and death he saves us
and lightens every load.

4 0 Saviour, child of Mary,
you felt our human woe;
O Saviour, King of glory.
you all our weakness know.
Lead us at last, we pray.
to the full joys of heaven
and into endless day.

Text Information
First Line: Behold, a rose is growing
Translator (vv. 1-3: Harriet Reynolds Spaeth, 1847-1925
Translator (v. 4): John Caspar Mattes (11914, alt.)
Meter: 76.76.676
Language: English
Publication Date: 1999
Scripture: ; ; ; ; ;
Topic: Christmas Eve; Jesus Christ: Humanity; Jesus Christ: Incarnation (4 more...)
Source: Anon. German, 15th cent.
Tune Information
Name: ES IST EIN ROS
Meter: 76.76.676
Key: F Major
Source: 15th cent.; 'Geisthliche Kirchengesäng', Cologne 1599



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