The Cambridge Carol Book/Christ is at thy portals

by Romanos the Melodist

VII. CHRIST IS AT THY PORTALS

'Christ is at thy portals:
Bethlem, ready make!
Soon, to save all mortals,
Christmas dawn shall break.
Bethlem, deck the manger,
Group the shepherd band;
Christ is near thy border,
Christ, of heaven King.
Call the kingly stranger
Out of Persian land.'
Thus, and in due order,
Hosts Angelick sing.