“Away in a manger, no crib for His bed. the little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head. the stars in the bright sky looked down where He lay. the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky. and stay by my side, ’till morning is nigh.  Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care and take us to heaven to live with Thee there.” (Author unknown – Music, William J. Kirkpatrick, 1895)

     Away in a manager is oftentimes the first carol children are taught. Away in a Manger was originally published in 1885 in a Lutheran Sunday school book. We sing this familiar Christmas carol year after year barely listening to the words. The tune is heard over the radio and sung by choirs of all ages and denominations. But do we really hear, pay attention to its poignant message?

*  No crib for His head (no reservations at Holiday Inn or a local hospital for Him or his pregnant mother)

*  Lord Jesus (God’s only Son)

*  Stay by my side (Protector, Comforter)

*  Take us to heaven (Savior of my soul)

*  To live with Thee there (eternal home in heaven)

     Humble beginnings…His birth–talk of the town, I’m sure. Doesn’t seem like a royal beginning for the King of all Kings. But then, He is God, and I am not. All this for me…for you.

Thank you, God, for providing life today and for preparing for tomorrow. All to Thee I owe.

Ask: What can I do today to show my appreciation and love to God?

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