Upon the dim Judean hills, The shepherds watched their flock by night, When on their unexpectant gaze Outshone that vision of delight, The fairest that did ever rise To awe and gladden earthly eyes. From no far realm those shepherds came, Treading the pilgrim’s weary road; Not theirs the vigil and the fast Within the hermit’s mean abode; ’Twas at their usual task they stood, When dawned that light of matchless good. Not only to the sage and seer Life’s revelation comes in grace; Most often on the toiler true, Who, working steadfast in his place, Looks for the coming of God’s will, The glorious vision shineth still. |