O Shepherds Watching

But Now there were in the same region some shepherds staying out in the field and keeping watch over their flock at night. And the angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." And suddenly here appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saing, "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among people with whom He is pleased."
Luke 2:8-17

Hymn tune: Hursley by Katholisches Gesangbuch (1774)

O shepherds watching in the field,

To you Christ’s birth has been revealed.

The glory of the Lord shone bright

Before the shepherds that dark night.

The angel of the Lord appeared.

The shepherds trembled, filled with fear.

Good news of joy did he convey,

"Fear not, a Savior’s born this day!”

"Good tidings of great joy I bring.

A Savior's born in Bethlehem.

Then there appeared God's host from heav'n,

Praising God for the gift He'd giv'n.

"Glory be to our God most high,

And on earth peace, good will toward men,

To those on whom God's favor rests."

Then leaving, they returned to heav'n.

The shepherds marveled at the sight

Finding the babe on that glorious night.

There in a manger on the hay,

In swaddling clothes the Savior lay!

revised January, 2025

Music: Hursley

Music Public Domain
Adapted from Katholisches Gesangbuch, c 1774

For permission to use or for sheet music contact me at wysorwoman(at)gmail.com

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