WHEN the angels o'er the shepherds
Sang announcement of Christ's birth,
It was heralded forever,
"Joy to men and peace on earth."
Tho an interval like midnight,
Should ensue before the dawn;
Yet the light of life had advent,
And the blazing day comes on!
What a day 'twill be! O rapture!
Not a shadow in the dome,
Glorious life and light and beauty,
Love forever, rest at home;
Harmony for heart's sweet tuning
Into song that can not cease,
One with Christ and with all others,—
"Joy on earth, good-will, and peace."