Together in Song ‎#294

294. Behold, a rose is growing

1 Behold, a rose is growing,
of loveliest form and grace,
as prophets sang, foreknowing;
it springs from Jesse's race,
and comes a perfect flower,
in midst of coldest winter,
at deepest midnight hour.

2 Isaiah hath foretold it
in words of promise sure,
and Mary's arms enfold it -
a gentle maiden pure.
Through God's eternal will
this child to her is given
at midnight calm and still.

3 This rose, whose fragrance tender
with sweetness fills the air,
dispels with glorious splendour
the darkness everywhere.
As human, yet true God,
from sin and death he saves us
and lightens every load.

4 0 Saviour, child of Mary,
you felt our human woe;
O Saviour, King of glory.
you all our weakness know.
Lead us at last, we pray.
to the full joys of heaven
and into endless day.

Text Information

• First Line: Behold, a rose is growing
• Translator (vv. 1-3: Harriet Reynolds Spaeth, 1847-1925
• Translator (v. 4): John Caspar Mattes (11914, alt.)
• Meter: 76.76.676
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1999
• Scripture:
  Colossians 1:19-20
  ;
  Isaiah 11:1-4
  ;
  John 1:10-14
  ;
  Luke 2:1-7
  ;
  Matthew 1:25
  ;
  Psalm 72
• Topic: Christmas Eve; Jesus Christ: Humanity; Jesus Christ: Incarnation; Jesus Christ: Redeemer; Mystery of God's Love; Prophetic Witness; Virgin Mary
• Source: Anon. German, 15th cent.

Tune Information

• Name: ES IST EIN ROS
• Meter: 76.76.676
• Key: F Major
• Source: 15th cent.; 'Geisthliche Kirchengesäng', Cologne 1599