W. H. Bathhurst, 1831. CHRISTMAS. 145 8, 6, 6, 8, 6, 6 All my heart this night rejoices, As I hear Far and near Sweetest angel voices; “Christ is born,” their choirs are singing, Till the air Everywhere Now with joy is ringing. 2. Forth to-day the Conqueror goeth, the foe, Sin and woe, Death and hell, o’erthroweth. God is man, man to deliver; His dear Son Now is one With our blood forever. 3. Shall we still dread God’s displeasure, Who, to save, Freely gave Us His dearest Treasure? To redeem us, He hath given His own Son From the throne Of His might in heaven. 4. Should He, who Himself imparted, Aught withhold From the fold, Leave us broken-hearted? Should the Son of God not love us, Who, to cheer Sufferers here, Left His throne above us? 5. If our blessed Lord and Maker Hated men, Would He then Be of flesh partaker? If He in our woe delighted, Would He bear All the care Of our race benighted? 6. He becomes the Lamb that taketh Sin away And for aye Full atonement maketh. For our Life His own He tenders And our race, By His grace, Meet for glory renders. 7. Hark! a voice from yonder manger, Soft and sweet, Doth entreat: “Flee from woe and danger; Brethren, from all ills that grieve you You are freed, All you need I will surely give you.” 8. Come, then, banish all your sadness, One and all, Great and small, Come with songs of gladness. Love Him who with love is glowing; Hail the Star, Near and far, Light and joy bestowing. 9. Ye whose anguish knew no measure, Weep no more, See the door To celestial pleasure. Cling to Him, for He will guide you Where no cross, Pain, or loss Can again betide you. 10. Hither come, ye heavy-hearted, Who for sin, Deep within, Long and sore have smarted; For the poisoned wounds you’re feeling Help is near, One is here Mighty for their healing. 11. Hither come, ye poor and wretched, Know His will Is to fill Every hand outstretchèd; Here are riches without measure, Here forget All regret, Fill your hearts with treasure. 12. Let me in my arms receive Thee, On Thy breast Let me rest, Savior, ne’er to leave Thee! Since Thou hast Thyself presented Now to me, I shall be Evermore contented. 13. Guilt no longer can distress me; Son of God, Thou my load Bearest to release me. Stain in me Thou findest never; I am clean, All my sin Is removed forever.