As With Gladness Men of Old
Religious Music · Other Songs - Religious Music
Did the guiding star behold
As with joy they hailed its light
Leading onward, beaming bright
So, most glorious Lord, may we
Evermore be led to Thee.
As with joyful steps they sped
To that lowly manger bed
There to bend the knee before
Him Whom Heaven and earth adore;
So may we with willing feet
Ever seek Thy mercy seat.
As they offered gifts most rare
At that manger rude and bare;
So may we with holy joy,
Pure and free from sin's alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring,
Christ, to Thee, our heavenly King.
Holy Jesus, every day
Keep us in the narrow way;
And, when earthly things are past,
Bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide,
Where no clouds Thy glory hide.
In the heavenly country bright,
Need they no created light;
Thou its Light, its Joy, its Crown,
Thou its Sun which goes not down;
There forever may we sing
Alleluias to our King!
As With Gladness Men of Old
Released by Religious Music, this hymn stands as a cornerstone of traditional Christian worship, reflecting the genre's enduring commitment to congregational singing and theological reflection. The piece draws upon the rich heritage of English hymnody, a tradition that has profoundly influenced modern liturgical music. Its melody and text invite listeners to contemplate the joyous nature of faith, echoing sentiments found in other works by the artist such as 'It Is Well With My Soul Hymn' and 'We Shall Overcome'. As a recording within the broader canon of religious music, it exemplifies the clarity and reverence characteristic of the style, serving as a timeless example for choirs and congregations seeking to express spiritual devotion through established musical forms.