Shepherds, Hail the Wondrous Stranger

1 Shepherds, hail the wondrous stranger!
Now to Bethle'm speed your way;
Lo! in yonder humble manger,
Christ, the Lord, is born to-day.

2 Christ, by prophets long predicted,
Joy of Israel's chosen race;
Light to Gentiles long afflicted,
Lost in error's darkest maze.

3 Bright the star of your salvation,
Pointing to his rude abode!
Rapturous news for every nation:
Mortals! now behold your god!

4 Glad we trace the amazing story;
Angels leave their bliss to tell;
Theme sublime, replete with glory:
Sinners saved from death and hell.

5 Love eternal moved the Saviour
Thus to lay his radiance by;
Blessings on the Lamb forever;
Glory be to God on high!

Source: The Voice of Praise: a collection of hymns for the use of the Methodist Church #155