The Shepherds Had an Angel

The shepherds had an angel,
The wise men had a star,
But what have I, a little child,
To guide me home from far
Where glad stars sing together,
And singing angels are?

Those shepherds, through the lonely night,
Sat watching by their sheep,
Until they saw the heavenly host
Who neither tire nor sleep,
All singing “Glory, glory”
In festival they keep.

Christ watches me, His little lamb,
Cares for me day and night,
That I may be His own in Heaven:
So angels clad in white
Shall sing their “Glory, glory,”
For my sake in the height.

Author: Christina Rossetti

Year: 1856

This Christmas poem/hymn by Christina Rossetti (from her collection "Sing-Song: A Nursery Rhyme Book") is a well-known work; it was later set to music by several composers including Harold Darke.