How vain the cruel Herod's fear
When told that Christ, the King is near;
He takes not earthly realms away
Who gives the realms that ne'er decay.

The Eastern sages saw from far
And follow'd on His guiding star
By light to light their way they trod
And by their gifts confess'd their God.

O while the star of heav'nly grace
Invites us, Lord, to seek Thy face,
May we no more that grace repel
Or quench the Light which shines so well.