139 - While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

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 forth-with
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!”