Ever Praise Music

and the Joyful Harts Music Library​

O Little Town of Bethlehem 

How silently, how silently, 
the wondrous gift is given; 
so God imparts to human hearts 
the blessings of his heaven. 
No ear may hear his coming, 
but in this world of sin, 
where meek souls will receive him, still 
the dear Christ enters in.

Micah 5
2 But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.

Worship Suggestion:
The sound file is looped.
1. As the song plays the first time, (During Verse 1) make remarks about the town of Bethlehem in the prophesy of Micah. Bethlehem is mentioned as the city of the coming of Christ. Emphasize that God spoke about the humble status of Bethlehem as the birth place of the Messiah. There is much that can come from humble beginnings. The Bible often reminds us of humility leading to elevation.
2. As the song continues, (During Verses 2 - 3) read scripture from the book of Micah 5:2 and Matthew 2:1-8.  Let the song end.
3. When the song restarts, sing Verses 1 - 3 together.
4. Prayer and Meditation.

O little town of Bethlehem, 
how still we see thee lie; 
above thy deep and dreamless sleep 
the silent stars go by. 
Yet in thy dark streets shineth 
the everlasting light; 
the hopes and fears of all the years 
are met in thee tonight. 

For Christ is born of Mary, 
and gathered all above, 
while mortals sleep, the angels keep 
their watch of wondering love. 
O morning stars together, 
proclaim the holy birth, 
and praises sing to God the king, 
and peace to all on earth!