brightest and best
– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

composed by john frederick bridge .

to the more traditional tune of spean .

intro and between each verse : C C/B Am G F G C

C G Em F C G
brightest and best of the sons of the morning ,

F Am Dm7 G7
dawn on our darkness and lend us thine aid;

G7 C F G7
star of the east , the horizon adorning ,

C C/B Am G F G C
guide where our infant redeemer is laid .

cold on his cradle the dewdrops are shining;
low lies his head with the beasts of the stall;
angels adore him in slumber reclining ,
maker and monarch and savior of all!

say , shall we yield him , in costly devotion ,
odors of edom and offerings divine?
gems of the mountain and pearls of the ocean ,
myrrh from the forest , or gold from the mine?

vainly we offer each ample oblation ,
vainly with gifts would his favor secure;
richer by far is the hearts adoration ,
dearer to god are the prayers of the poor .