157. Brightest and Best

1 Brightest and best of the stars of the morning,
dawn on our midnight and lend us your aid.
Star of the East the horizon adorning,
guide where our infant Redeemer is laid.

2 Cold on his cradle the dew-drops are shining,
God's holy Child with the beasts of the stall;
Angels adore while this baby lies sleeping,
Maker and Monarch and Savior of all.

3 Shall we not offer our costly devotion,
fragrance of Edom and offerings divine,
Gems of the mountain and pearls of the ocean,
myrrh from the forest or gold from the mine?

4 Vainly we offer each ample oblation,
vainly with gifts would his favor secure;
Richer by far is the heart's adoration;
dearer to God are the prayers of the poor.

Text Information
First Line: Brightest and best of the stars of the morning
Title: Brightest and Best
Author: Reginald Heber (1811, alt.)
Meter: 11.10.11.10.
Language: English
Publication Date: 1995
Scripture: ;
Topic: Jesus Christ: Epiphany and Youth; Year A: Christmas Day 1; Year A: Christmas Day 2 (7 more...)
Notes: Alternate setting: WALKER
Tune Information
Name: MORNING STAR
Composer: James P. Harding
Meter: 11.10.11.10.
Key: G Major
Source: The New Psalms and Hymns, Richmond, Va., 1901



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