492. 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
A Savior, who is Christ the Lord,
And this shall be the sign:

4 “The heav’nly 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 heav’n to men
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)
Meter: 8.6.8.6.6
Scripture:
Source: Timeless Truths (http://library.timelesstruths.org/music/While_Shepherds_Watched_Their_Flocks)
Tune Information
Name: CHRISTMAS
Composer: George F. Handel (1728)
Meter: 8.6.8.6.6
Key: D Major
Source: Timeless Truths (http://library.timelesstruths.org/music/While_Shepherds_Watched_Their_Flocks)



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