Brightest and Best

A.K.A. Star of the East
Rise Up Singing chapter: Faith, p.40
Words by Reginald Heber, 1811

D - G D / - - G A / D - C D / - - A D

Brightest and best of the sons of the morning
Dawn on our darkness and lend us thine aid
Star of the East the horizon adorning
Guide where our infant redeemer is laid

Cold on his cradle the dewdrops are shining
Low lies his head with the beasts of the stall
Angels adore him in slumber reclining
Maker and monarch and saviour of all

Say shall we yield him in costly devotion
Odours of Edom and offerings divine
Gems from the mountain and pearls from the ocean
Myrrh from the forest or gold from the mine?

Vainly we offer each ample oblation
Vainly with gifts would His favour secure
Richer by far is the heart's adoration
Dearer to God are the prayers of the poor