Christian Worship (1993) ‎#53

53. To Shepherds as They Watched by Night

1 To shepherds as they watched by night
Appeared a host of angels bright;
"Behold the tender babe," they said,
"In yonder lowly manger laid,

2 "At Bethlehem, in David's town,
As Micah did of old make known.
It is the Christ, your Lord and King,
Who will to all salvation bring."

3 Oh, then rejoice that through his Son
God is with sinners now at one;
Made like yourselves of flesh and blood,
Your brother is the eternal God.

4 What harm can sin and death then do?
The true God now abides with you.
Let hell and Satan storm and rave,
Christ is your brother -- you are safe.

5 Not one he will or can forsake;
His cov'nant he will never break.
Let ev'ry scheme the tempter try,
You may his utmost pow'rs defy.

6 You shall and must at last prevail.
God's own you are; you cannot fail.
To God forever sing your praise
With joy and patience all your days.

Text Information

• First Line: To shepherds as they watched at night
• Title: To Shepherds as They Watched by Night
• Author: Martin Luther
• Translator: Richard Massie
• Meter: LM
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1993
• Topic: Christmas

Tune Information

• Name: PUER NOBIS NASCITUR
• Meter: LM
• Key: D Major
• Source: Latin melody, 15th century, adapt.