The Story of "Away in a Manger"

    In 1224, St. Francis of Assisi was dealing with a dilemma. The message of Christ's birth had become so intellectual that it was aloof and dogmatic. "It must be simplified so that it might appeal to the heart of the common people," he decided. Then a he had an idea. "Why not dramatize the Christmas story? The common folk will then be able to better understand the meaning of Christmas."

So he had a nativity scene and all the trappings of a stable placed in his church. On Christmas Eve, the people came to the church, and saw Joseph, Mary, and the precious baby Jesus. The people were so excited! Christmas had never seemed so real to them.

Since that time, the manger has become one of the main symbols of Christmas. One of the best known songs concerning it is "Away in a Manger." This song was generally referred to as "Luther's Cradle Hymn." In 1887, the song was printed in North America, with the heading, "Composed by Martin Luther for his children, and still sung by German mothers to their little ones." The author of the lyrics has never been verified, and the source of the tune is still unknown. Some say it may have been written by a member of a German Lutheran colony from Pennsylvania.

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.

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.

Be near me Lord Jesus,
I ask thee to stay.
Close by me forever,
And love my I pray.

Bless all the dear children,
In thy tender care.
And take them to heaven,
To be with thee there.

Learn to play beautiful Christmas Carols on your piano -- click here