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While shepherds watched their flocks by night, |
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All seated on the ground, |
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The angel of the Lord came down, |
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And glory shone around. |
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"Fear not," said he, for mighty dread |
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Had seized their troubled mind, |
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"Glad tidings of great joy I bring |
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To you and all mankind." |
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"To you, in David's town this day, |
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Is born of David's line |
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The Savior who is Christ the Lord, |
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And this shall be the sign: |
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The heavenly Babe you there shall find |
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To human view displayed, |
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All meanly wrapped in swathing bands, |
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And in a manger laid." |
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Thus spake the seraph, and forthwith |
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Appeared a shining throng |
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Of angels praising God and thus |
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Addressed their joyful song: |
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"All glory be to God on high |
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And on the earth be peace, |
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Goodwill henceforth from heaven to men |
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Begin and never cease." |