Christmas Hymn: Away in a Manger

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26
Dec '20

Christmas Hymn: Away in a Manger

Posted on Dec 26, 2020 by Ken Durham in Devotions, General |

26
Dec '20
Seize the Moment – Day 284

Today’s Christmas Hymn:  Away in a Manger

Matthew 2:6          
 
“‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
    are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
    who will shepherd my people Israel.’” (ESV)

 

“Away In A Manger” is one of the most popular Christmas carols and yet, its history has been obscured behind false information for a long time. James Murray published the song in 1887, making reference to the words and melody as being inspired by Martin Luther in a lullaby that he sang to his family. It’s rise to fame was not based upon that connection, but rather the melody that was easy to sing and the words that brought peace and comfort to those who sang them.

 

Reflecting the simple beginnings of our Lord’s arrival to earth and being born in a stable, this song paints the picture for us to see as you sing…

 

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

 

While the song contains a prayer asking Jesus to stay close by, we need to remember that He promised to never leave us nor forsake us. We need to wake up and hold on to that promise, realizing that, while it is a pretty Christmas carol, the theology of the third verse is not totally accurate. Remember, if you ever have any doubt, go to God’s Word and check it out!

 
 
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YOUTUBE:

If you prefer a video, Pastor Ken reads his devotion on YouTube as well. Click HERE to visit the page.
Videos are posted about a week after the devotion appears in the blog.
 
 
If you would like to read the words to this hymn or hear the melody played, click on this link:
 
 
1
Away in a manger, no crib for a 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.
 
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 side until 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.
 

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