59. 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,
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 humankind,
To you and humnakind.

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,
And this shall be the sign.

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

5 Thus spake the seraph and forthwith
Appeared a shining throng
Of angels praising God, who thus
Addressed their joyful song,
Addressed their joyful song:

6 "All glory be to God on high,
And to the Earth be peace;
Good will to all from highest heaven
Begin and never cease!
Begin and never cease!"

Text Information
First Line: While shepherds watched their flocks by night
Title: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks
Author: Nahum Tate (1700; alt. 1987)
Meter: CM with repeat
Language: English
Publication Date: 1990
Scripture:
Tune Information
Name: CHRISTMAS
Composer: George Frederick Handel (1728)
Arranger: Lowell Mason (1821)
Meter: CM with repeat
Key: D Major



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