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Christmas Bells

Henry W. Longfellow (1864) • English

Primary Scripture: Isaiah 11:4-5

Verse 1

I heard the bells on Christmas day Their old familiar carols play, And wild and sweet the words repeat Of peace of earth, good will to men.

Verse 2

I thought how, as the day had come, The belfries of all Christendom Had rolled along th'unbroken song Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Verse 3

And in despair I bowed my head: "There is no peace on earth," I said, "For hate is strong, and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Verse 4

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep; The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, With peace on earth, good will to men."

Verse 5

Till, ringing, singing on its way, The world revolved from night to day A voice, a chime, a chant sublime, Of peace on earth, good will to men.

Scripture References

Reference 1

  • isaiah 11:4-5

Reference 2

  • isaiah 12:2

Reference 3

  • micah 5:5

Reference 4

  • zechariah 9:10

Reference 5

  • luke 2:13-14