“Away in a Manger” is probably the best-loved Christmas Carol of all time that is associated with children and their Christmas musical programs. The sweetness and simplicity of the lyrics portray the Christmas story as revered through the ages:



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.



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 til morning is nigh.



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 they tender care,

And take us to heaven, to live with Thee there.



Historical facts reveal that in 1224 St. Francis of Assisi was dealing with a dilemma. He searched for a simplified version of telling the birth of Jesus; that it might appeal to the heart of the common people. He decided to dramatize the Christmas story, thus began a long tradition of the nativity scene in church services. The people came to church and saw all of the trappings of a stable with Joseph, Mary, and the precious baby Jesus. The people saw and understood making the Christmas story real to them.

The manger has become one of the main symbols of Christmas and one of the best-known songs concerning it is “Away in a Manger.” This song was generally referred to as “Luther’s Cradle Hymn” and it has been traditional to credit this hymn to Martin Luther. James R. Murray published the first two stanzas of the song in an 1885 Lutheran Sunday School book. Dr. John McFarland of New York City added the third stanza in 1904. No matter what its origin, this lullaby of a hymn continues to soften hearts every Christmas.

As I think back through the years of Christmas past, I can remember many renditions of this favorite Christmas Carol. It’s one that will never grow old or meaningless, but will stay in one’s heart year after year.

I must mention a favorite DVD. It is entitled “The Nativity Story.” It’s advertised as “the journey of a lifetime, a story for all time.” The tag on the cover of this special Christmas Story portrayal reads: “It was the cruelest of times. Under Herod’s torturous reign, families struggled to survive and yet, in the midst of utter turmoil, a young woman’s faith was put to test. Join Mary and Joseph on an incredible journey of hope and discovery. Epic in its scope, yet intimate in its portrayal of this historic family, this wonderful film is a family feature that will be cherished for years to come.” The DVD is a production of New Line Home Entertainment, Inc.

I admit that I am not one to repeat, whether it is a movie, or a book – not even a television program (except for “Everybody Loves Raymond” and I watch it everyday) but I can’t get enough of this DVD. The scenery is breathtaking and authentic, the actors are believable and the story, yes, the story … is really the greatest story ever told.

At this Christmas season I have renewed my sense of awe … my reverence and faith. The baby boy who was laid in a manger, no crib for a bed … the stars in the sky look down where he lay … the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

After my granddaughter’s Christmas program this year, Bro Davey Wilkerson at Lauderdale UMC said, “If you don’t get it after seeing this children’s Christmas program, then there is no hope for you.”

I got it – readers, how about you?

Merry Christmas to you and yours … may the peace of the season linger in your heart.