1 Wide o’er earth’s remotest border
Long had midnight darkness dwelt,
Darkness, parent of disorder,
Darkness, such as might be felt.

2 But the Lord of life descending
From His mansion in the skies,
Peace and joy His steps attending,
Bids a glorious light arise.

3 Jesus comes; in silent wonder
Nations hail the new-born light,
While He rends the veil asunder
Which concealed Him from their sight.

4 Now the prince of darkness trembles,
For his reign is near its end;
All his forces he assembles
His frail empire to defend.

5 Vain attempt! the word is spoken,
Christ shall reign on every shore;
Soon shall Satan’s rod be broken,
Sin and darkness be no more.