Songs Of Hope - Sing We Now Of ChristmasExemplo

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night

The Song

With beautiful poetic verse, Nahum Tate crafted his words into a biblically-based, word-portrait of Luke’s account. His work appeared in print as poetry in 1702. As was common, the poetry was then set to music. This particular carol has been supported by two different tunes over time, both of which many church hymnals include to this day.

The Scene

Stanza one sets the scene with shepherds, out in the field, working the night shift, minding their own business, literally. God’s messenger arrived accompanied by the glory of the Lord. This “Glory” being the brightest illuminating force they had ever encountered. It is an understanding messenger who began such a discourse with, “Fear not!”

Second and third stanzas: “‘Fear not’ said he (for mighty dread had seized their troubled mind). ‘Glad tidings of great joy I bring to you and all mankind. To you in David’s town this day is born of David’s line a savior, who is Christ the Lord; and this shall be the sign;”

The Message

Good News for each of them, and for ALL people -- every person of every nation, tribe, people and language! This Good News was a fulfillment of the promise made to Joseph and Mary that they would give birth to son, and he would save his people from their sin. For all who would believe this and trust in this Savior would be reconciled to God; thus, there would be “peace among those with whom he is pleased.” Later the apostle Paul would write, “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

Those of us who follow this Savior have experienced His forgiveness, and walk daily in the peace of God because we have peace with God. Therefore, we can wholeheartedly join in the words of the sixth and final stanza:

All glory be to God on high and to the earth be peace;
Good will henceforth from heaven to men begin and never cease.

Regan & Robin Miller
Student Life
University of Mary Hardin-Baylor