Moravian Book of Worship ‎#278

278. How Bright Appears the Morning Star

1 How bright appears the Morning Star
with mercy beaming from afar;
the host of heav'n rejoices;
O righteous Branch, O Jesse’s Rod,
O Son of man, and Son of God,
we too will lift our voices.
Jesus, Jesus, holy, holy, yet most lowly,
now draw near us;
great Emmanuel, kindly hear us.

2 Though circled by the hosts on high,
he deigned to cast a loving eye
upon his helpless creature;
the whole creation’s Head and Lord,
by highest seraphim adored,
assumed our very nature.
Jesus, grant us through your merit, to inherit
your salvation;
hear, O hear our supplication.

3 Rejoice, O heav'ns, and earth reply;
with praise, you sinners, fill the sky
for this, his incarnation.
Incarnate God, put forth your pow'r;
ride on, ride on, great Conqueror,
till all know your salvation.
Amen, amen! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Praise be given
evermore by earth and heaven.

Text Information

• First Line: How bright appears the Morning Star
• Title: How Bright Appears the Morning Star
• Author: Philipp Nicolai (1599)
• Translator: John Christian Jacobi (1722)
• recast: William Mercer (1855-59)
• Meter: 8.8.7.8.8.7.2.2.4.4.4.8.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1995
• Scripture:
  Job 38:7
  ;
  Isaiah 7:14
  ;
  Matthew 1:23
  ;
  2 Peter 1:16-19
  ;
  Revelation 22:13-20
• Topic: Christmas; Christian year--Christmas

Tune Information

• Name: WIE SCHÖN LEUCHTET DER MORGENSTERN (NICOLAI)
• Composer: Philipp Nicolai (1599)
• Harmonizer: Johann Sebastian Bach (ca. 1731)
• Meter: 8.8.7.8.8.7.2.2.4.4.4.8.
• Key: D Major