Jesus, Once of Humble Birth

Two of the most remarkable events in the story of this world are the Savior’s birth and his second coming.  In this hymn Parley Pratt begins the text with the word “once” followed, in the next line, by the word “now.”  The contrasting passages throughout the hymn poetically compare Christ’s humble beginnings and extraordinary life to his exaltation.

Jesus, once of humble birth,

Now in glory comes to earth.

Once he suffered grief and pain;

Now he comes on earth to reign.

Once a meek and lowly Lamb,

Now the Lord, the great I Am.

Once upon the cross he bowed;

Now his chariot is the cloud.

Once he groaned in blood and tears;

Now in glory he appears.

Once rejected by his own,

Now their King he shall be known.

Once forsaken, left alone,

Now exalted to a throne.

Once all things he meekly bore,

But he now will bear no more.

Although Jesus Christ was not widely recognized as the Messiah during his mortal sojourn, there will be no mistaking his divine power and glory with the future return of the King.

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