Shepherds in Judea

Lyrics

(William Billings, 1781)

1. Then God sent an angel from heaven so high,
To certain poor shepherds in fields where they lie.
And bade them no longer in sorrow to stay,
Because that our Savior was born on this day.

Refrain
Dispel all your sorrows and banish your fears,
For Jesus your Lord in Judea appears,
Dispel all your sorrows and banish your fears,
For Jesus your Lord in Judea appears.

2. “A token I leave you where by you may find
This heavenly Stranger, this friend to mankind.
A manger His cradle, a stall His abode,
The oxen are near Him and blow on your God.
Then, shepherds, be tranquil, this instand arise,
Go visit your Savior and see where He lies. (repeat)

3. This wonderful story scarce reached the ear
When thousands of angels in glory appear,
They join in the concert, and this was the theme:
All glory to God, and good will towards men.
Then, shepherds, go join your glad voice to the choir,
And catch a few sparks of celestrial fire. (repeat)

4. To Bethlehem city the shepherds repaired,
For full confirmation of what they had heard,
They entered the stable, with aspect so mild,
And there they beheld the Mother and Child.
Then, shepherds, adore, we commend thee to God,
God worship the Son in His humble abode. (repeat)

  • Song with chords (PDF)
  • MIDI file
  • Listen to the song
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