Worship in Song ‎#97

97. 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 all mankind,
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,
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,
And in a manger laid."

5 All glory be to God on high,
And to the earth be peace;
Good will henceforth from heaven to all,
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 (1702)
• Meter: 8.6.8.6.
• Publication Date: 1996
• Scripture:
  Luke 2:8-16
• Topic: Angels; Children; Christmas; Story of Jesus; Nativity; Peace

Tune Information

• Name: CHRISTMAS
• Composer: George Frederick Handel (arr. )
• Meter: 8.6.8.6.
• Key: D Major
• Source: Siroe, 1728; Adapt.: Harmonia Sacra, 1812