The Great Forerunner of the Morn

Verse 1

The great forerunner of the morn, The herald of the Word, is born; And faithful hearts shall never fail With thanks and praise his light to hail.

Verse 2

With heav'nly message Gabriel came, That John should be that herald's name, And with prophetic utt'rance told His actions great and manifold.

Verse 3

Though not yet born, John gave aright His witness to the coming Light; And Christ, the Sun of all the earth, Fulfilled that witness at his birth.

Verse 4

John's mighty deeds exalt his fame To greater than a prophet's name; Of woman born shall never be A greater prophet than was he.