Long had the nations sat
O’erwhelmed in shades of night;
Thick shades which scarce admission gave
To one faint gleam of light.

Behold the morning star,
Now ushers in the day!
John, was that burning shining light,
Sent to prepare the way.

Behold a greater light,
The sun itself arise!
Jesus, bright sun of right­eous­ness,
Salutes our wondering eyes.

Light of the world! His beams
Dispel the doleful night;
He from our eyelids clears the film,
And pours in heavenly light.

Jesus! Thou light of men!
Thy doctrine life imparts;
O may we feel its quickening power,
To warm and glad our hearts.

Cheered by Thy beams, our souls
Shall run the heavenly way;
The paths which Thou hast marked and trod
Shall lead to endless day.