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Behold, a Branch is Growing

John Caspar Mattes (1914) • English

Primary Scripture: Psalm 72

Verse 1

Behold, a branch is growing of loveliest form and grace! As prophets sang, foreknowing, it springs from Jesse's race and now begins to flow'r in midst of coldest winter, at deepest midnight hour.

Verse 2

Isaiah had foretold it in words of promise sure, and Mary's arms enfold it, a virgin meek and pure. Through God's eternal will this child to her is given at midnight calm and still.

Verse 3

This flow'r, whose fragrance tender with sweetness fills the air, dispels with glorious splendor the darkness ev'rywhere. True man, and yet true God, from sin and death he saves us and lightens ev'ry load.

Verse 4

0 Savior, child of Mary, who felt our human woes, O Savior, King of glory, who conquered all our foes, bring us at last, we pray, to the bright courts of heaven and to the endless day.

Scripture References

Reference 1

  • psalms 72

Reference 2

  • isaiah 11:1-10

Reference 3

  • jeremiah 23:5-6

Reference 4

  • matthew 1:25

Reference 5

  • luke 2:1-7

Reference 6

  • john 1:10-14

Reference 7

  • romans 15:12

Reference 8

  • colossians 1:19-20

Reference 9

  • 1-peter 1:20
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