Rhonda Reese Purtee

Text: Traditional English carol, adapted by William Chatterton Dix circa 1865
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?
Why lies He in such mean estate,

Where ox and ass are feeding?

Good Christian, fear: for sinners here

The silent Word is pleading.
So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh,

Come, peasant, king to own Him.

The King of kings salvation brings;

Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
This, this is Christ, the King,

Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:

Haste, haste to bring Him laud,

The Babe, the Son of Mary!