Long long ago in a manger low

1 Long, long ago in manger low,
Was cradled from above,
A little child, in whom God smiled,
A Christmas gift of love;
When hearts were bitter and unjust,
And cruel hands were strong,
The noise He hushed with hope and trust,
And peace began her song.

2 Where’er the Father’s Christmas gifts
Seem only frost and snow,
And anxious stress and loneliness,
And poverty and woe;
Straightway provide a welcome wide,
Nor wonder why they came;
They stand outside our hearts and bide,
And knock in Jesus’ name.

3 For trouble, cold, and dreary care
Are angels in disguise,
And greeted fair, with trust and prayer,
As peace and love they rise;
They are the manger, wide and low,
In which a Christ child lies;
O welcome Guest, Thy cradle nest
Is always God’s surprise.

Source: The Cyber Hymnal #11627

• MIDI file from The Cyber Hymnal #11627