Behold, a Branch Is growing

Behold, a branch is growing of loveliest form and grace! As prophets sang, foreknowing, it springs from Jesse's race and now begins to flow'r in midst of coldest winter, at deepest midnight hour. Isaiah had foretold it in words of promise sure, and Mary's arms enfold it, a virgin meek and pure. Through God's eternal will this child to her is given at midnight calm and still. The shepherds heard the story Proclaimed by angels bright, How Christ, the Lord of glory, Was born on earth this night. To Bethlehem they sped And in the manger found him, As angel heralds said. This flow'r, whose fragrance tender with sweetness fills the air, dispels with glorious splendor the darkness ev'rywhere. True man, and yet true God, from sin and death he saves us and lightens ev'ry load. 0 Savior, child of Mary, who felt our human woes, O Savior, King of glory, who conquered all our foes, bring us at last, we pray, to the bright courts of heaven and to the endless day. 0 Savior, child of Mary, who felt our human woes, O Savior, King of glory, who conquered all our foes, bring us at last, we pray, to the bright courts of heaven and to the endless day.