52 PUER NATUS IN BETHLEHEM
The oldest form of this Christmas carol is found in a Benedictine Processional belonging to the beginning of the fourteenth century.
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| Zion is glad this glorious morn: A babe in Bethlehem is born. | | See where He lies in manger low, Whose kingly reign no end shall know. | | The ox and ass that filled the stall, Knew that the babe was Lord of all. | | Out from the east the sages bring Their treasures for an offering. | | They humbly seek the lowly place, And worship there the King of grace: | | The Son of God, who made the earth, A virgin mother gave Him birth. | | No poison from the serpent stains The human blood that fills His veins; | | And though our flesh He meekly wears, No mark of sin His nature bears; | | That He might man to God restore, And give the grace that once He wore. | | Come while our hearts are full of mirth And bless the Lord of lowly birth. | | The Holy Trinity we’ll praise, And give our thanks to God always. | |