Cradled in a manger

1) Cradled in a manger meanly
Laid the Son of Man His head
Sleeping His first earthly slumber
Where the oxen had been fed
Happy were those shepherds listening
To the holy angels word
Happy they within that stable
Worshipping their infant Lord

2) Happy all who hear the message
Of His coming from above
Happier still who hail His coming
And with praises greet His love
Blessed Saviour Christ most holy
In a manger Thou didst rest
Canst Thou stoop again yet lower
And abide within my breast

3) Evil things are there before Thee
In the heart where they have fed
Wilt Thou pitifully enter
Son of Man and lay Thy head
Enter then O Christ most holy
Make a Christmas in my heart
Make a heaven on my manger
It is heaven where Thou art

4) And to those who never listened
To the message of Thy birth
Who have winter but no Christmas
Bringing them Thy peace on earth
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