“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2)

.

Click here for hymn sheet: Bethlehem Bethlehem (final)

.

Bethlehem, Bethlehem, though you are small

From your cold crèche comes the Saviour of all

Though you are humble and hidden away

Mary’s son Jesus lies nestled in hay.

.

There lie the shepherds on your lonely hill

Waiting for daybreak, all silent and still

Suddenly, suddenly, thunder and light

Angels unnumbered burst forth in the night.

.

There in your stable, the one from of old

Sleeping contentedly, safe from the cold

None but the shepherds to welcome this guest

No great parade for the purest and best.

.

There in your hidden place, God became man

Helpless and needy, as heaven had planned

Grace and compassion, and love without end

He is our Saviour, the world’s greatest friend.  

.

words and music by Gary Hicks, copyright 2010, 2015