While Shepherds Watched

While shepherds watched their flocks by night,
All seated on the ground,
The angel of the Lord came down,
And glory shone around.

"Fear not!" said he; (for mighty dread)
Had seized their troubled minds,
"Glad tidings of great joy I bring,
To you and all mankind.

"To you, in David's town, this day
Is born of David's line,
The Saviour, who is Christ the Lord;
And this shall be the sign:

"The heavenly babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathingbands,
And in a manger laid."

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

"All glory be to God on high,
And on the earth be peace:
Good will henceforth from heaven to man,
Begin and never cease!"