For Epiphany

Words: Wie schön leuchtet der Morgenstern, Philipp Nicolai, 1597;
Translator: John M. Sloan, 1865

Music: "Nicolai" by Philip Nicolai, 1599
Meter: 887 887 84 48

Source: Henry Sloane Coffin and Ambrose White Vernon, eds., Hymns of the Kingdom of God. New York: The A. S. Barnes Company, 1910, #105.

1. How brightly shines the Morning Star!
What ray divine streams from afar!
    God's glory there is shining.
Bright beam of God, which scatters night,
And guides the wandering soul aright,
    Which after truth is pining!
        Jesus, God's Word, truth revealing,
        Sorrow healing.
        Sooth our sighing,
        Dry our tears, and end our dying.

2. My comfort here, my joy above,
Man's Son, Son of the Father's love,
    Enthroned in highest heaven.
With my whole heart Thy praise I sing;
To Thee, our Prophet, Priest and King,
    Be endless honors given.
        Saviour, To Thee, trusting, clinging,
        Come I bringing
        Soul and spirit,
        Thee, my portion, to inherit.

3. Aid me, my God, to sing Thy praise,
Thine ageless love, Thy matchless grace,
    In Christ, our Lord, appearing.
When such a gift God gave for thee,
When such a brother true is He,
    Why still my soul be fearing?
        Choose Him, know Him, greatest, dearest,
        Best and nearest,
        To befriend thee
        'Gainst all foes who may offend thee.

Sheet Music "Nicolai" by Philip Nicolai, 1599, from Henry Sloane Coffin and Ambrose White Vernon, eds., Hymns of the Kingdom of God. New York: The A. S. Barnes Company, 1910, #105.