Christian Hymns/Redeemer of the Nations, Come

Background

Text

• Author: Ambrose of Milan
• Translator: Catherine Winkworth
• Source: Chorale Book for England

Music

Hymn Tune(s):

• Nun Komm, der Heiden Heiland
• Veni Redemptor Gentium

Lyrics

Redeemer of the nations, come!

Ransom of earth, here make Thy home!

Bright Sun, oh dart Thy flame to earth,

For so shall God in Christ have birth!

Thou comest from Thy kingly throne,

O Son of God, the Virgin's Son!

Thou Hero of a twofold race,

Dost walk in might earth's darkest place.

Thou stoopest once to suffer here,

And risest o'er the starry sphere;

Hell's gates at thy descent were riven,

Thy ascent is to highest Heaven.

One with the Father! Prince of might!

O'er nature's realm assert Thy right,

Our sickly bodies pine to know

Thy heavenly strength, Thy living glow.

How bright Thy lowly manger beams!

Down earth's dark vale its glory streams,

The splendour of Thy natal night

Shines through all time in deathless light.