The Shepherds watch their flocks by night, Beneath the moon's unclouded light, All around is calm and still, Save the murm'ring of the rill: When lo! a form of light appears, And on the awe-struck Shepherds' ears Are words, of peace and comfort flowing From lips with love celestial glowing. Spiritual forms are breaking Through the gloom, their voices taking Part in the adoring song Of the bright angelic throng. Wondering the Shepherds bend Their steps to Bethlehem, and wend To a poor and crowded inn: -- Tremblingly their way they win To the stable, where they find The Redeemer of mankind, Just born into this world of danger, Lying in an humble manger. And they spread abroad each word Which that joyful night they'd heard, And they glorified the name Of their gracious God, Who came Himself to save from endless woe The offspring of this world below. |