We Three Kings

Old hymn, new lyrics

by Ken Sehested

We three kings of Orient are bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain, following yonder star

Refrain:
O star of wonder, star of light, star with royal beauty bright
Westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light.

Royal-born on Bethlehem’s plain, gold I bring to crown him again
Rule forever, ceasing never, over us all to reign. Refrain

Frankincense to offer have I; incense rising, prayers on high
Joyful praising, voices raising, worshiping God come nigh. Refrain

Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume breathes a life of gathering gloom
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, sealed in the stone-cold tomb. Refrain

Glorious now behold him arise; from death’s grip and sacrifice
Alleluia, Alleluia, sounds through the earth and skies. Refrain

Words and music: John H. Hopkins; adaptations (vv. 2-3, 5) by Ken Sehested • ©Ken Sehested @ prayerandpolitiks.org