Author: Carl P. Daw, Jr., b. 1944 Meter: 9.8.9.8.8.8.8 Appears in 1 hymnal Topics: Advent IV A First Line: Though famed in Israel's royal hist'ry Lyrics: 1 Though famed in Israel's royal hist'ry,
Bethlehem would that past excel
When God revealed a greater myst'ry,
The Word made flesh, Emmanuel:
Through Mary born from David's line,
A Savior human and divine.
2 Who would expect a humble manger
To cradle such a holy birth!
How could flesh clothe the stars' arranger
Or sheathe the hands that formed the earth?
God's ways confound the worldly-wise,
Disarm the sure with bright surprise.
3 All we recall of gain or glory
Can scarce predict what still may be;
God is the Author of our story,
Whose will is sov'reign, boundless, free:
Yet living in this time and place
We can be vessels of God's grace.
4 Kindle, O God, your gifts within us,
Stir up our faith, renew our nerve.
When tempting powers seek to win us,
Help us remember whom we serve:
Transform our lies and build in them
A new and willing Bethlehem. Used With Tune: WER NUR DEN LIEBEN GOTT
Though Famed in Israel's Royal History