Musical Advent Calendar - Day 6

Each day, from December 1 to December 25, I will post the text (and translation, if necessary) of an Advent- or Christmas-themed song, along with the URL for a YouTube video containing that song. (Select "Musical Advent Calendar" from the list of labels in the right sidebar to sort all of them out from the other posts on the blog.) You will note that each selection has a text, collectively representing the last 2000 years, and this is intentional. For the more familiar texts (such as popular Christmas carols), I have chosen a variety of interpretations and performers, from professional choirs to contemporary Christian worship leaders. I suggest that you follow the text as the music plays, and reflect on the words that proclaim the First Advent of our Savior, the Lord Jesus.

May our King, who promises to come again, reveal himself to you in a new way this Advent.

DECEMBER 6

What Child is This

Text by William C. Dix (c. 1865)

Hymn Tune: "Greensleeves," a traditional English melody (c. 16th cent.), harmonized by John Stainer (1871)

Performed by Josh Groban

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brmRUlKbF7g

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

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

Raise, raise the song on high

His mother sings her lullaby

Joy! Joy, for Christ is born

The Babe, the Son of Mary

(Refrain)