Christians, awake, salute the happy morn 
whereon the Savior of the world was born. 
Rise to adore the mystery of love 
which hosts of angels chanted from above. 
With them the joyful tidings were begun 
of God incarnate and the virgin’s Son.

Then to the watchful shepherds it was told, 
who heard th’angelic herald’s voice: “Behold, 
I bring good tidings of a Savior’s birth 
to you and all the nations on the earth. 
This day has God fulfilled his promised word: 
this day is born a Savior, Christ the Lord!”

Then may we hope, th’angelic throngs among,
to sing, redeemed, a glad triumphant song;
he that was born upon this joyful day
around us all his glory shall display;
saved by his love, incessant we shall sing
eternal praise to heav’n’s almighty King.

John Byrom (1692-1763)