Not in cloud and not in thunder,
Filling all the world with wonder,
Came to earth the Lord of earth;
But with helpless cries and tears,
Mid a mother's pains and fears,
Entered by the gate of birth.

By the way of flesh he came --
How else could he kindred claim?
How else, save life's path he trod,
Coming in the way of breath,
Going out the way of death,
Be himself the way to God?

Living words by prophets spoken,
Hearts with longing well nigh broken,
Expectation in the air;
Blind desire of every nation,
Eyes that waited for salvation,
Coming of the Son declare.

Thus he came, our new beginning,
For the death doom of our sinning,
Giving us God's life again:
Then a bright new star shone o'er us,
Then began that heavenly chorus,
'Peace on earth, good will to men.'