Traditional Hymns
Away in a Manger
Away in a Manger
Listen to:
Away in a Manger (.midi) Away in a Manger (.mp3) Away in a Manger Bells Version (.mp3) Away in a Manger Organ Accompaniment by Sarah Bereza (.mp3)
1. Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. The stars in the sky looked down where he lay, the little Lord Jesus, asleep on the hay.
2. The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes, but little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes; I love thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky and stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.
3. Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask thee to stay close by me forever, and love me, I pray; bless all the dear children in thy tender care, and fit us for heaven to live with thee there.
Devotional based on the hymn Away in a Manger
Scripture:"And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them." — Luke 2:7 (NIV)
Reflection:
"Away in a manger, no crib for a bed, the little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head..."
These gentle opening words paint one of the most tender images of Christmas — the Son of God resting quietly in a feeding trough, wrapped in love and humility. In a world that often celebrates power, prestige, and comfort, God chose the lowliest place for the King of kings to enter human history.
The beauty of this moment is found in its simplicity. No royal cradle, no grand parade — just a manger, a young mother, a faithful father, and the unseen chorus of angels rejoicing. It reminds us that God's greatest gifts often come quietly, humbly, and unexpectedly.
The hymn continues, describing Jesus' meekness and His care for the "little children." It invites us into a relationship with Him, a relationship rooted not in fear, but in love, trust, and tender nearness. "I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky, and stay by my side until morning is nigh." It is a prayer we can all echo: for Christ’s presence to stay close, guarding our hearts and guiding our steps.
In the busyness of life, and especially during seasons that can feel rushed and overwhelming, "Away in a Manger" calls us to slow down and find peace beside the cradle of Christ. It invites us to trade our striving for simple worship, and our anxieties for childlike trust.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for humbling Yourself to be born among us, to live with us, and to save us. Teach us to find joy in the simple, to welcome You into the quiet places of our hearts, and to rest in Your love. Stay close to us, now and always. Amen.
Challenge for Today:
Find a moment of quiet to sit with the story of Christ’s birth. Imagine the manger, the night sky, the hush of the stable. Let your heart be filled with wonder that God came near — and still draws near — to you.
