Dec 22 The First Noel

Dec 22 The First Noel
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_First_Noel

The first 'Noel!' the angels did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.

Refrain: Noel! Noel! Noel! Noel!
Born is the King of Israel!

For all to see there was a star
Shining in the east, beyond them far;
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night.

And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a King was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went.

This star drew nigh to the northwest:
O'er Bethlehem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay,
Right over the place where Jesus lay.

Then did they know assuredly
Within that house the King did lie;
One entered in then for to see,
And found the Babe in poverty.

Then entered in those wise men three,
Full rev'rently upon their knee,
And offered there, in his presence,
Both gold and myrrh, and frankincense.

Between an ox-stall and an ass
This Child there truly borned was;
For want of clothing they did him lay
All in the manger, among the hay.

Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord
That hath made heaven and earth of nought,
And with His blood mankind hath bought.

If we in our time shall do well
We shall be free from death and hell,
For God hath prepared for us all
A resting-place in general.

The origin of the word “noel,” and even its exact meaning, has been lost to antiquity. Some scholars say the word is French, signifying “a shout of joy” at Jesus’ birth. Others go further back to Medieval Latin and say that it derives from the word “natalis” which means “birth,” and therefore has to do with the birth of Jesus. Another Latin word, “novella,” meaning “news,” is also a possible meaning of the word, conveying the idea that there were shouts of joy over news of Jesus’ birth.

The unknown poet who wrote “The First Nowell” conveys the angels’ message, “Fear not, for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people” (Luke 2:10), a reminder that “now all is well,” or “nowell.” The carol has been popular for nearly three centuries.

Craft: shepherds, sheep, star, wise men, Noel word art
http://www.origami-club.com/en/ Christmas>several stars, also Animals/Birds>Sheep
http://crafts.kaboose.com/noel-sparkle-jar.html