In Bethlehem with joy

Too often in this wicked world,
Without good reason why
Our foes had all surrounded us
But for your love each day.
So bless the Lord for ever
That we should never die -
To buy us free he took our flesh
And shared our mortal clay.

It was that noble royal child
On Mary's breast did lie,
Encircled by the heavenly host
Who sang as God's envoy,
And told unto the shepherds
Their Saviour now was nigh
For every tribe and nation
In Bethlehem with joy.

Within they saw that maiden
With glory on her face;
The true light had been published clear
And shone within that place,
And they were filled with cheerfulness
As they to Him gave praise
To that most dear and holy child,
High King o'er every race.

It was a great and cheering tale
They heard without delay:
Our Saviour had intended
With love, not to destroy
But visit Adam's blemished race
And raise them all who pray
For faith in Him who risen was,
In Bethlehem with joy.

Words ("Am Betlehem an àigh") by Iain Mac Eacharna, translated by Kenneth MacKinnon © 1982, 1993.
Music (tune "Bethlehem") traditional, arranged by Paul McDowell © 1992.

Words and music may not be reproduced without permission from the copyright owner.