While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

Verse 1

1. While shepherds watched their flocks by nightLuke 2:8There were shepherds in that same area who were staying out in the open country, standing guard over their flock through the night.
2. All seated on the groundBeyond Luke does not say they were seated.
3. The angel of the Lord came downLuke 2:9Then an angel of the Lord stood over them, the Lord’s glory shone all around them, and they were struck with great fear.
4. And glory shone aroundLuke 2:9

Verse 2

1. “Fear not,” said he, for mighty dreadLuke 2:10The angel told them, “Do not be afraid, for look, I am proclaiming to you good news of great joy that will belong to all the people:
2. Had seized their troubled mindLuke 2:9
3. “Glad tidings of great joy I bringLuke 2:10
4. To you and all mankindLuke 2:10

Verse 3

1. To you, in David’s town, this dayLuke 2:11this very day in David’s city a Savior has been born for you. He is the Messiah, the Lord.
2. Is born of David’s lineLuke 1:32This one will be great; he will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father.
3. A Savior, who is Christ the LordLuke 2:11
4. And this shall be the sign:Luke 2:12And this is your sign: you will find an infant wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.”

Verse 4

1. The heavenly babe you there shall findLuke 2:12
2. To human view displayed
3. All meanly wrapped in swathing bandsLuke 2:12
4. And in a manger laid”Luke 2:12

Verse 5

1. Thus spake the seraph, and forthwithIsaiah 6:2Seraphim stood above him, each with six wings: two to cover his face, two to cover his feet, and two to fly with.Beyond Luke says an angel. Seraphs are the creatures in Isaiah 6.
2. Appeared a shining throngLuke 2:13All at once there was with the angel a vast crowd of heaven’s army, praising God and saying,
3. Of angels praising God, who thusLuke 2:13
4. Addressed their joyful song:

Verse 6

1. “All glory be to God on highLuke 2:14“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among people in whom he delights!”
2. And to the earth be peaceLuke 2:14
3. Good will henceforth from heaven to menLuke 2:14
4. Begin and never cease”