Lyrics
Wonderful angels in garments of white,
Came to the shepherds one beautiful night,
Singing a Song of surpassing delight -
Praise to God on high.
Refrain
Glory, glory,
Oh, glory to God on high!
Glory, glory,
Yes, glory to God on high!
Oh, what a song was that song from the sky,
Never such glory did shepherds discry,
Never had heaven before been so nigh,
Praising God on high.
Birth of a Saviour the angels proclaimed,
"City of David" - and "Jesus" - were named -
Then was the word of peace sweetly acclaimed,
Praising God on high.
Never those shepherds forgot what they heard:
Strongly and deeply their hearts had been stirred;
Seeking for Jesus - they heeded the word -
Praising God on high.
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
“Glory, Glory” recounts the angelic announcement of Christ’s birth with close attention to the shepherds, the city of David, and the praise that filled the night. Its recurring cry of glory directs the celebration toward God rather than toward the wonder of the messengers themselves. The verses move from the angels’ appearance to the shepherds’ response, presenting the nativity as both divine revelation and a call to seek Jesus.
The refrain gives the song a clear congregational center: glory belongs to God on high. Its imagery closely follows Luke’s account of angels proclaiming a Savior and peace, while the final verse emphasizes that the shepherds acted on what they heard. That progression gives the hymn a fitting Christmas focus without losing its broader theme of worship. Joy, proclamation, and faithful response meet in a compact retelling of the good news announced near Bethlehem.
Related Scripture
- Luke 2:10-14 Angels announce the Savior’s birth and give glory to God on high.
- Luke 2:15-16 The shepherds respond by going to find Jesus in Bethlehem.