MHB 131 – THE first Nowell the angel did say

Methodist-Hymns-131

1: THE first Nowell the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay:
In fields where they lay a-keeping their sheep
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell, Nowell,
Born is the king of Israel.

2: They looked up and saw a star,
Shining in the east, beyond them far,
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night.

3: And by the light of that same star,
Three wise men came from country afar;
To seek for a king was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went.

4: This star drew nigh to the north-west,
O’er Bethlehem it took its rest,
And there it did both stop and stay
Right over the place where Jesus lay.

5: Then entered in those wise men three,
Full reverently upon their knee,
And offered there in His presence
Their gold and myrrh and frank-incense.

6: Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our Heavenly Lord,
That hath made heaven and earth of nought,
And with His blood mankind hath bought.