Hymns and Devotions for Daily Worship ‎#183

183. Bearer of the World's Salvation

1. Bearer of the world's salvation,
Lo, a virgin pure and mild,
Humble-hearted, low in station,
Form of beauty undefiled,
Crown of Earth's anticipation,
Comes the mother maid with child.

2. See in flesh so great a wonder
By the pow'r of God ordained:
Him, whose feet all worlds lay under,
In a virgin's womb contained,
Earthly bonds to put asunder,
Righteousness from Heav'n has rained.

3. Mary sweet, with love o'erflowing,
To the hills in haste she fares,
On a kindred heart bestowing
Blessing from the joy she bears,
Waiting while with mystic showing
Time the sacred birth prepares.

4. What fair joy o'ershown that dwelling,
Called so great a guest to greet!
What her joy whose love compelling
Found a rest for Mary's feet.
When, the bliss of time foretelling,
Lo, the Voice and Word did meet!

Text Information

• First Line: Bearer of the world's salvation
• Title: Bearer of the World's Salvation
• Latin Title: Mundi salus affutura
• Translator: Laurence Housman (1906)
• Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 2024
• Scripture:
  Luke 1:39-41
• Topic: Vistation of Mary with Elizabeth
• Notes: Text from the Latin “Mundi salus affutura,” 15th cen., tr. by English poet Laurence Housman, alt.

Tune Information

• Name: URBS BEATA JERUSALEM
• Meter: 8.7.8.7.8.7
• Incipit: 55543 4551
• Key: g minor
• Source: Arr. The English Hymnal, 1906
• Notes: Plainchant tune, 13th cen.