139   While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks




[1]
While shepherds watched their flocks by night
All seated on the ground
The angel of the Lord came down
And glory shone around.

[2]
"Fear not!" said he for mighty dread
Had seized their troubled mind;
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring
To you and all mankind.

[3]
"To you in David s town this day
Is born of David s line
The Savior who is Christ the Lord;
And this shall be the sign:

[4]
"The heavenly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands
And in a manger laid."

[5]
Thus spake the seraph; and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God on high
Who thus addressed their song:

[6]
"All glory be to God on high
And to the earth be peace;
Good will henceforth from heaven to men
Begin and never cease!"