What Child is This?
What Child is this who, laid to rest,
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing;
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christians, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce Him through,
The cross be borne for me, for you;
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.
Version 1
Words: William Chatterton Dix, 1865.
Said to be adapted from Dix’ poem The Manger Throne
Music: “Greensleeves,” 16th Century English melody
Arranged by Sir John Stainer
Prayer
O Son of Mary, Christ my King, thank you for sneaking into the world into such humble surroundings. And thank you for offering Your life as servant and sacrifice, so that I might live the abundant life You promised, now and forever. Amen.
