advent: what child is this?

A couple of days late on this one, but better late than not at all, I say. Gotta keep writing!

I tell you what, these Christmas carols move my heart. I was praying over something recently while one was playing, and it really was just perfect--O come, Emmanuel, into this situation.

This week's carol is more about the version than the actual song, although the song is fantastic. The version I found highlighted the third verse you'll see below, the lyrics of which I had never noticed. Good ol' MercyMe...I think they've gotten better and better over the years. And then, in researching a little bit more, I found another verse I didn't even know existed. Such treasures in the words of these carols!

I present: What Child is This.

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 Christians, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spears shall pierce Him through,
The cross He bore 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 a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The babe, the Son of Mary.

This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The babe, the son of Mary.

I hope you enjoy my favorite version!