1 ’Tis the season of Christmas—away to the manger,
The place of all others where Christians should prove
The zeal of disciples to welcome the Stranger
Who comes on His mission of mercy and love.
And what tho’ His roof and reception be lowly,
Where only the poor and the humble repair;
’Tis the birthplace of Christ, consecrated and holy,
’Tis the temple of Godhead, for Jesus is there!

2 Oh, come to the manger—the angel is winging
Thro’ the air, while his tidings are sounding abroad;
A legion of heavenly choristers singing,
Good will to the nations, and glory to God!
Hast thou not a word for that wonderful meeting?
No song in that anthem of glory to share?
Awake from thy slumbers, to join in their greeting,
And come to the manger—for Jesus is there!

3 Oh, come to the manger—the shepherds, obeying
The herald of glory, are there even now;
Their fervent petitions of gratitude paying,
And pleading their fealty and making their vow.
Hast thou no allegiance to offer before Him?
No vows of affection, no penitent prayer?
Awake from thy slumbers, prepare to adore Him,
And come to the manger—for Jesus is there!

4 Oh, come to the manger—the star is yet shining,
Undimmed by a cloud, uneclipsed by the morn;
Like curtains of silver, its radiance inclining,
To shelter the couch where the Savior was born.
It shines to invite, to assure, to direct thee,
’Tis an omen of mercy—no longer forbear;
The shepherds, the magi, the angels expect thee,
Come, come to the manger—for Jesus is there!