Lyrics
Hear the cry from Bethlehem
O children come
Son of God now born to men
O children come –
Bring your troubles, bring your fears,
Bring the needs that draw you near,
Find the hope of all the years –
O children come!
O children come!
Peace on earth good will to men
O children come
Righteous rule that will not end
O children come –
Lay down all your bitterness,
Turn from sin’s toil and distress,
Find His grace and perfect rest –
O children come!
O children come!
Where the Father’s grace has walked
O children come
Where you see the hurt and lost
O children come –
Show the mercy shown to you,
Gifts of kindness to renew,
Love from hearts sincere and true –
O children come!
O children come!
Video
Meaning & Inspiration
O Children Come frames the birth of Christ as an invitation to approach Him with fear, need, and hope. Bethlehem anchors the song in the Nativity, while the announcement of peace and goodwill recalls the angelic message to the shepherds. The lyric does not leave that welcome in the past; it calls troubled people to find grace, rest, and freedom from the burden of sin.
The final verse turns reception into response. Those who have encountered the Father’s grace are urged to notice people who are hurt or lost and to extend mercy, kindness, and sincere love. That movement from the manger to compassionate action gives the song both a Christmas setting and an everyday Christian ethic. Christ appears as the promised Son whose righteous reign endures, and His welcome becomes the pattern for welcoming and serving others.
Related Scripture
- Luke 2:10-14 The angels announce Christ’s birth and proclaim peace and goodwill.
- Matthew 11:28 Jesus invites the burdened to come to Him and receive rest.
- Ephesians 4:32 Believers are instructed to show kindness and compassion to one another.