Come and Stand Amazed, You People!

I discovered a new (old) Christmas carol this year! This is a medieval Dutch carol, based on a translation by Klaas Hart (1906-1973). The words dig deep into the mystery and miracle of Christmas. Merry Christmas, and enjoy!

Come and Stand Amazed, You People

Come and stand amazed, you people,
See how God is reconciled!
See his plans of love accomplished,
See his gift, this newborn child.
See the Mighty, weak and tender,
See the Word who now is mute.
See the Sovereign without splendor,
See the Fullness destitute;
The Beloved whom, we covet,
In a state of low repute.

See how humankind received him;
See him wrapped in swaddling bands,
Who as Lord of all creation
Rules the wind by his commands.
See him lying in a manger
Without sign of reasoning;
Word of God to flesh surrendered,
He is wisdom’s crown, our King.
See how tender our Defender
At whose birth the angels sing.

O Lord Jesus, God incarnate,
Who assumed this humble form,
Counsel me and let my wishes
To your perfect will conform.
Light of life, dispel my darkness,
Let your frailty strengthen me;
Let your meekness give me boldness,
Let your burden set me free;
Let your sadness give me gladness,
Let your death be life for me.

 
And here are some modern renderings of the carol on YouTube:

Come and Stand Amazed – Eternity Focus (Video length: 3:48)

Come and Stand Amazed – Citizens (cover) (Video length: 2:28)

4 Comments

  1. Also take a look at this completely different version we did a few years ago for sister group, “Eternity Focus”.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uu5w_e5AYw8

  2. Ray Fowler says:

    Eric – Thank you for the link. That is an absolutely gorgeous version. I have updated the post to include it.

  3. Cheryl says:

    The original hymn music is beautiful, so I’m disappointed no one has performed this hymn with the original melody. The lyrics of this hymn demonstrate the dichotomy of Christ’s deity and his humanity. The original music portrays that dichotomy beautifully with its chord progression. I only wish I was a better musician and could perform it for all the world to hear. Not all hymns need to be “covered.”

  4. Ray Fowler says:

    Thanks Cheryl, do you have a link to any performances with the original melody? I would love to hear it. It really is a beautiful hymn, and it would be nice to hear it in its original setting.

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