Faux-Ratorio: Guard him, Joseph / Sally DeFord

Guard him, Joseph, as he slumbers, there behind the stable doors

Let no errant sound distress him, tread thou softly on the floor

Linger watchful round the manger; hush thy voice and still the beasts

For thou hast within thy keeping Christ, the infant Prince of Peace.

Guard him, Joseph, through the darkness; watching o'er him till the dawn

Bid the shepherds enter meekly, stand in wonder, gaze in awe

Trim thy lamp and shield thy candle; see they burn all through the

night For thou hast within thy keeping Christ, the everlasting Light

Guard him, Joseph, from all danger; keep thy vigil nigh his bed

Let no harm nor grief befall him; stand thou in a father's stead

When his mother's arms be weary, hold him gently as thine own

For thou hast within thy keeping God's own well-beloved Son.

Faux-Ratorio