The Star

ETHEL BOWMAN RONALD

The star that shone so long ago
O'er Bethlehem afar,
That cheered the shepherds' wakeful eyes,
And brought such wonder to the wise—
Still shines that ancient star.
And though the mists of earth enfold,
The seeking gaze may yet behold
Its radiance and its glow.

It is the hope that comes to cheer
Where pain and sickness dwell,
That promises since God is good,
If we but know His fatherhood
His children must be well.
It is the joy that soars and sings
Above the world's unhappy things
Until they disappear.

It is the love that knows no strife,
But gently doth forbear,
And as a flower turns toward the sun
Looks to the only perfect One
And sees Him everywhere.
Hope, joy, and love, they ever are
The shining of that glorious star
That heralds Truth and Life.

O God, as wise men came of yore
With frankincense and gold,
We come in glad humility
Our grateful hearts to offer Thee,
And all the love they hold.
And like that joyous angel throng
That pealed on high their deathless song,
We praise Thee and adore.