We marvel at the miracle, Lord,
which you wrought when Jesus was born.
She that gave birth was a virgin,
and he that was born was your child.
No wonder the heavens sang, the angels rejoiced,
the wise men were transformed,
the king was seized with fear,
and the tiny children were crowned
with the glory of martyrdom.
He came to be our spiritual food,
yet he was laid in the manger like fodder.
Then the ox recognized its master
and the ass its master.
Then the Jews recognized their messiah
and the Gentiles their saviour.
Gelasian Sacramentary, 5th century, liturgy the Merovingian church, France
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Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
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