Now at last the destined ages
Their appointed course had run,
When rejoicing from His chamber
Issued forth the Bridegroom Son.
He embraced His bride, and held her
Lovingly upon His breast,
And the gracious Mother laid Him
In the manger down to rest.
There He lay, the dumb beasts by Him,
They were fitly stabled there,
While the shepherds and the angels
Filled with melody the air.
So the feast of their espousals
With solemnity was kept;
But Almighty God, an Infant,
In the manger moaned and wept.
So the bride at her betrothal
Did the bridal gifts arrange;
But the Mother looked in wonder
At the marvelous exchange.
Man gave forth a song of gladness,
God Himself a plaintive moan;
Both possessing that which never
Had been hitherto their own.