The anticipation of the Savior’s birth in Bethlehem and the joy it would bring is displayed in this Advent hymn. Our arrangement is lively and exciting, and we hope you’ll envision the celebration that occurred at the manger and in heaven as you play it!
People, look east. The time is near / Of the crowning of the year.
Make your house fair as you are able, / Trim the hearth and set the table.
People, look east and sing today: / Love, the guest, is on the way.
Furrows, be glad. Though earth is bare, / One more seed is planted there:
Give up your strength the seed to nourish, / That in course the flower may flourish.
People, look east and sing today: / Love, the rose, is on the way.
Birds, though you long have ceased to build, / Guard the nest that must be filled.
Even the hour when wings are frozen / God for fledging time has chosen.
People, look east and sing today: / Love, the bird, is on the way.
Stars, keep the watch. When night is dim / One more light the bowl shall brim,
Shining beyond the frosty weather, / Bright as sun and moon together.
People, look east and sing today: / Love, the star, is on the way.
Angels, announce with shouts of mirth / Christ who brings new life to earth.
Set every peak and valley humming / With the word, the Lord is coming.
People, look east and sing today: / Love, the Lord, is on the way.”
Eleanor Farjeon, 1928
Church Calendar: Advent, Christmas
Hymn Tune: BESANÇON
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Purchasing this 8-bell arrangement gives you permission to print and maintain up to four copies for your handbell group (plus the accompaniment score, if part of the purchase) – so you only need to pay once. Purchase also gives permission for performance, broadcasting, live-streaming and video-sharing online. See our licensing agreement for full details, and please remember to mention the title and arranger of the piece on video-sharing sites, social media and any printed materials such as concert programs.
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