Drowsy and Mislead

Oh little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie.
And so, like thee, Jerusalem is also sleeping nigh.
All Israel slumbers peaceful, a small repose to take,
While humble shepherds, in the fields, are watching wide awake.

Tiring, scholars and high priests have laid their scrolls aside.
And shamefully a coat of dust the sacred scriptures hide.
Mislead interpretations have kept them unaware,
While foreigners the prophecies inspect with honest care.

In drowsiness and ignorance the priests and people live.
While gentile kings and shepherd men a kingly welcome give.
Although the books and angels foretell the news to earth,
God’s people are not ready, and they miss His holy birth.

Now we, like Israel ago, await a coming king.
The same of whom the scriptures speak and hosts of angels sing.
We mustn’t let opinions our studies now benumb.
Keep us, Lord, awake so we are ready when you come.