21.
Reading edition
Give ear, O earth, while angels sing, Good news to sinful men they bring; And while angelic hosts rejoice, Sure gratitude should tune our voice.
CHORUS:
Rejoice, happy mortals, cast sorrow away, Glad tidings salute your ears; Break forth into singing and join the sweet lay, The promised Redeemer is born to-day, The glory of Israel appears.
The God of peace, the God of love, Has left his shining realms above, And to this lower world came down, To purchase us a heavenly crown. Rejoice, &c.
This welcome sound the shepherds hear, While watching o’er their fleecy care; “In David’s city,” Gabriel cries, “The Saviour in a manger lies!” Rejoice, &c.