Devotional for the First Day of Christmas

Bristol Cathedral

During the Twelve Days of Christmas (December 25– January 5) and the Day of Epiphany (January 6), we will hear from Charles Wesley,    Hymns for the Nativity of Our Lord (London: Strahan, 1745). These hymns were written for the season of Christmas and speak of the birth of the Messiah and of the joy that is the Christmas season. 

Ye simple men of heart sincere,

Shepherds who watch your flocks by night,

Start not to see an angel near,

Nor tremble at this glorious light.

 An herald from the heavenly King,

I come your every fear to chase:

Good tidings of great joy I bring,

Great joy to all the fallen race!

To you is born on this glad day

A Saviour, by our host adored;

Our God in Bethlehem survey,

Make haste to worship Christ the Lord.

By this the Saviour of mankind,

The incarnate God, shall be display’d,

The Babe ye wrapp’d in swathes shall find

And humbly in a manger laid.