O Little Town of Bethlehem

1 O little town of Bethlehem, 
how still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep 
the silent stars go by.
Yet in thy dark streets shineth 
the everlasting light;
the hopes and fears of all the years 
are met in thee tonight.

2 For Christ is born of Mary 
and, gathered all above,
while mortals sleep, the angels keep 
their watch of wond'ring love.
O morning stars, together
proclaim the holy birth,
and praises sing to God the King,
and peace to men on earth.

3 How silently, how silently
the wondrous gift is giv'n!
So God imparts to human hearts
the blessings of His heav'n.
No ear may hear His coming,
but in this world of sin,
where meek souls will receive Him still
the dear Christ enters in.

Source: Hymns to the Living God #114