Joy To The World!

http://listeninglab.stantons.com/title/joy-to-the-world/354820/

From heaven's glory Christ came down to sinful men on earth.

We've reached another Christmas day to celebrate His birth;

Eternal God in human form, the virgin's holy Child:

The One of Whom the prophets wrote, the seed of woman undefiled.

Gabriel came to Mary’ home God’s message to proclaim,

To tell her of the Saviour’s birth; to give to her His name

“Call Him Jesus,” God’s command; on David’s throne he’ll reign;

He’ll save His people from their sin and Israel’s right regain.

In Bethlehem’s manger He came forth — Israel’s glorious King.

The shepherds kept their flock by night and heard the angels sing:

“Peace on earth! Good will to men! Christ is born today.”

The wise men came to see the King; God’s star had led the way.

And there was born the Son of God Who lived in Israel’s land,

Who came to earth to do God’s will — all that God had planned.

Christ came to set the captive free, give Satan’s slaves release,

He spake the Word of God to men, brought comfort, health and peace.

By word and work Christ proved His claim; His right to David’s throne.

But Israel said, “He shall not reign” — rejected they the Stone.

In the garden Christ was found, and by Judas there betrayed.

Before the rulers He was led, in purple robe arrayed.

Crowned with thorns they hailed Him king, in derision and disgrace;

They hated Him without a cause; they spat upon His face.

Pilate found no fault in Him, desired to set Him free:

His rulers cried, “We’ll take the blame! Nail Him to the tree.”

So the Lord of glory died; but He suffered not in vain.

Not only was His death foretold; but He must rise again.

No other way could God be just and sinful men forgive;

The penalty by Christ was paid! By faith the just shall live.

Eternal life is God’s free gift through Jesus Christ our Lord.

And when we’re saved, God gives us work with promise of reward.

And as we worship, serve and wait until we hear the call

We know our labor’s not in vain; for God remembers all.

(John O'Hair)