Ever since this 17th century text was joined to this modern tune, this hymn has become my favorite Christmas hymn. The text is by Paul Gerhardt (1607-1676). The tune is by Kenneth Kosche, director of the Concordia University Wisconsin "Kammerchor," which is also the choir you hear in the video.
O Jesus Christ, Thy manger is my paradise at which my soul reclineth. For there, O Lord, doth lie the Word made flesh for us; herein Thy grace forth shineth.
He whom the sea and wind obey doth come to serve the sinner in great meekness. Thou, God's own Son, with us art one, dost join us and our children in our weakness.
Thy light and grace our guilt efface, Thy heavenly riches all our loss retrieving. Immanuel, Thy birth doth quell the power of hell and Satan's bold deceiving.
Thou Christian heart, whoe'er thou art, be of good cheer and let no sorrow move thee! For God's own Child, in mercy mild, joins thee to Him; how greatly God must love thee!
Remember thou what glory now the Lord prepared thee for all earthly sadness. The angel host can neve boast of greater glory, greater bliss or gladness.
The world may hold her wealth and gold; but thou, my heart, keep Christ as thy true treasure. To Him hold fast until at last a crown be thine and honor in full measure.
Lutheran Service Book #372
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