Verse 1A
Cradled in a manger, meanly, Laid the Son of Man His head; Sleeping His first earthly slumber Where the oxen had been fed.
Verse 1B
Happy were those shepherds listening To the holy angel’s word; Happy they within that stable Worshipping their infant Lord.
Verse 2A
Happy all who hear the message Of His coming from above; Happier still who hail His coming, And with praises greet His love.
Verse 2B
Blessèd Saviour, Christ most holy, In a manger Thou didst rest; Canst Thou stoop again, yet lower, And abide within my breast?
Verse 3A
Evil things are there before Thee; In the heart, where they have fed, Wilt Thou pitifully enter, Son of Man, and lay Thy head?
Verse 3B
Enter, then, O Christ most holy; Make a Christmas in my heart; Make a heaven of my manger: It is heaven where Thou art.
Verse 4A
And to those who never listened To the message of Thy birth, Who have winter, but no Christmas Bringing them Thy peace on earth,
Verse 4B
Send to these the joyful tidings; By all people, in each home, Be there heard the Christmas anthem; Praise to God, the Christ has come!