From Heaven Above to Earth I Come

Christmas Carol Lyrics

From heaven above to earth I come,
To bear good news to every home,
Glad tidings of great joy I bring,
Whereof I now will gladly sing.

To you this night is born a Child
Of Mary, chosen mother mild;
This little Child, of lowly birth,
Shall be the joy of all the earth.

Glory to God in highest heaven,
Who unto us His Son hath given!
While angels sing with pious mirth,
A glad New Year to all the earth.

About This Carol

From Heaven Above to Earth I Come is a classic Christmas hymn written by Martin Luther himself in 1534. Luther originally composed the text as a kind of musical storytelling game for his children. The earliest verses are sung from the perspective of an angel bringing joyful news of Christ's birth, while later stanzas invite listeners to join in praise and reflection. This blend of simplicity and spiritual depth helped the hymn spread quickly through early Lutheran communities.

The tune commonly associated with the carol, Vom Himmel hoch, is also attributed to Luther. Its gentle, steady melody makes it easy for both congregations and families to sing. Over the centuries, the hymn has been included in countless hymnals, often with slight variations in translation. Its central themes of wonder, humility, and divine love have remained unchanged.

The structure of the carol is part of its charm. It begins with the angelic announcement of Christ's birth, gradually shifts to the shepherds' response, and finally turns inward, inviting each listener to welcome the Christ child in their own heart. This progression gives the hymn a sense of movement and reflection that enriches Christmas services, especially those held on Christmas Eve.

Although it was written nearly five hundred years ago, From Heaven Above to Earth I Come continues to resonate. Its message is timeless. It offers a gentle reminder that Christmas joy arrives quietly, often in the most humble of places.

Hymnal Performance Video with Lyrics

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