O Jesus Christ, Our Lord Most Dear

O Jesus Christ, our Lord most dear,
As Thou wast once an Infant here
So give this child of Thine, we pray,
Thy grace and blessing day by day.

Refrain

O holy Jesus, Lord divine,
We pray Thee guard this child of Thine.

As in Thy heav’nly kingdom, Lord,
Thy messengers obey Thy word,
Send forth the succor of Thy might
To shield this child both day and night.

Refrain

And all his life, let angels keep
Him safe from harm, awake, asleep;
May he not bear the cross in vain,
But with Thy saints a crown attain.

Refrain

Author: Heinrich von Laufenberg

Year: 1450

This is a translation of the 15th-century German hymn 'Ach lieber Herre Jesu Christ' (or similar title) by Heinrich von Laufenberg (also known as Heinrich von Loufenberg). The English version is commonly attributed to the original author in hymnals, though the translator (often Catherine Winkworth or another) is sometimes noted separately.