The first Noel the angel did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay keeping their sheep, On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Refrain: Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel, Born is the King of Israel.
They looked up and saw a star Shining in the east, beyond them far; And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night.
And by the light of that same star Three* Wise Men came from country far; To seek for a King was their intent, And to follow the star where’er it went.
This star drew nigh to the northwest, Over Bethlehem it took its rest; And there it did both stop and stay, Right over the place where Jesus lay.
Then entered in those Wise Men three, Full reverently upon the knee, And offered there, in His presence, Their gold and myrrh and frankincense.
Then let us all with one accord Sing praises to our heav’nly Lord That hath made heaven and earth of naught, And with His blood mankind hath bought.
*The Bible mentions three gifts, but does not state the number of wise men.
Source:
The Cyber Hymnal (http://www.hymntime.com/tch/htm/f/r/s/frstnoel.htm)
