XXI. The Nativity of Christ

I "Shepherds, rejoice, lift up your eyes,
"And send your fears away;
"News from the regions of the skies,
"Salvation's born to day.

II "Jesus, the God whom angels fear,
"Comes down to dwell with you;
"To day he makes his entry here,
"But not as monarchs do.

III "No gold, nor purple swaddling bands.
"Nor royal shining things;
"A manger for his cradle stands,
"And holds the King of kings.

IV "Go, shepherds, where the infant lies,
"And see his humble throne;
"With tears of joy in all your eyes,
"Go, shepherds, kiss the Son."

V Thus Gabriel sang, and strait around
The heavenly armies throng;
They tune their harps to lofty sound,
And thus conclude the song:

VI "Glory to God that reigns above,
"Let peace surround the earth:
"Mortals shall know their Maker's love,
At their Redeemer's birth."

VII Lord! and shall angels have their songs,
And men no tunes to raise!
O may we lose our useless tongues
When they forget to praise!

VIII Glory to God that reigns above,
That pitied us forlorn;
We join to sing our Maker's love,
For there's a Saviour born.

Text Information
First Line: Shepherds, rejoice, lift up your eyes
Title: The Nativity of Christ
Meter: Short Metre
Language: English
Publication Date: 1787
Tune Information
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