On Judah's plains as shepherds sat, Watching their flocks by night, The angel of the Lord appeared, Clad in celestial light. Awe struck the vision they regard, Appalled with trembling fear; When thus a cherub voice divine Breathed sweetly on their ear. ?Shepherds of Judah! cease your fears, And calm your troubled mind; Glad tidings of great joy I bring To you and all mankind. ?This day almighty Love fulfills Its great eternal Word; This day is born in Bethlehem A Savior, Christ the Lord. ?There shall you find the heavenly Babe In humblest weeds arrayed; All meanly wrapped in swaddling clothes And in a manger laid.? He ceased, and sudden all around Appeared a radiant throng Of angels, praising God, and thus Warbling their choral song. ?Glory to God, from Whom on high All gracious mercies flow! Who sends His Heav'n descended Peace To dwell with man below.?