1 Lo! the shepherds, abiding in the fields by night,
Many years ago,
Heard the voices of angels, saw a wondrous light,
Many years ago;
The wise men of old saw the guiding star,
Whose beams from the heavenly gates ajar
Did lead to the Christ Child in Bethl’hem afar,
Many years ago.

Refrain:
Lead, guiding star,
Lead, guiding star;
Lead thou me on as in dear Bethlehem;
Lead, guiding star,
Lead thou me on as in the days of old,
Bright star of Bethlehem!

2 ’Twas a beautiful vision that to man was giv’n,
Many years ago,
And a wonderful message that was sent from Heav’n,
Many years ago;
O beautiful vision in lowly stall!
O life-giving message to great and small—
The "peace and goodwill," bringing gladness to all,
Many years ago. [Refrain]