There have been a couple of interesting discussions about hymn texts here and on that other blog.

Fr. Joncas suggested that we open up discussions here about hymn texts.

I'd like to offer the following, and suggest that when reading it, an attempt should first be made to really understand it on its own terms first. What is it trying to say, something new, or is the message something well-established in the Tradition that is being re-stated in a new way here? How does it relate its message, rhetorically? What is the use being made of Scripture? Etc etc.

I think its best to begin this way because in my experience, everyone tends to come to hymnody with preferences that have perhaps been developed over many years, and these can get in the way of "listening" to a hymn on its own terms before making strong statements. So I suggest taking time, slowing down to smell the roses, and then make analytic points that really refer to the text we have here.

I'm attaching Colin Brumby's fine anthem treatment in case that helps. However, I would prefer that the discussion please stay focused on the text.

I feel confident about the hymn-craft on this text, but since there is always room for improvement, please feel free to make suggestions. Thanks!

Who is rising in the east
like the light of many suns?
Bridegroom coming to the feast:
eagerly his race he runs.
Splendor of the rising day,
reaching out from end to end,
all creation in his sway—
and he calls the sinner “friend.”

Camel through the needle’s eye,
for our sake becoming poor,
so the Lord of earth and sky
enters through a humble door:
enters through a Virgin womb,
rises from a borrowed grave.
So he wills to gently come.
Powerfully he comes to save.

He comes forth to be our food
reigning from the Father’s hand.
Eat and live: be filled with good.
Drink, and you will understand.
Every morning mercies new
on the altar, grace for grace,
fall like never-failing dew
till we see him face to face.