Greensleaves

Greensleaves
Lyricist, verse 1: William Dix
Lyricist, verse 2: Dolores Dufner
Composer: R. Scott White

Verse 1:
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 Christian 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!

So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh;
Come, peasant, king, to own Him.
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone him.
Raise, raise the song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby;
Joy, joy, for Christ is born,
The babe the son of Mary!

Verse 2:
What feast of love is offered here,
What banquet come from heaven?
What food of everlasting life,
What gracious gift is given?
This, this is Christ the King,
The bread come down from heaven.
Oh, taste and see and sing!
How sweet the manna given!

What light of truth is offered here,
What covenant from heaven?
What hope of everlasting life,
What wondrous word is given?
This, this is Christ the King,
The sun come down from heaven,
Oh, see and hear and sing!
The Word of God is given!

What wine of love is offered here,
What holy drink from heaven?
What stream of everlasting life,
What precious blood is given?
This, this is Christ the king,
The sweetest wine of heaven.
Oh, taste and see and sing!
The Son of God is given!