Away in a Manger

“She gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”—Luke 2:7 NASB

The world can seem so complicated. There seem to be countless reasons to feel worried and stressed. To troubled hearts, the Christmas message can seem unrealistic, too good to be true. But the miracle is that it is true! And it is so simple that even a child can grasp it.

Nowhere is this simplicity clearer than in “Away in a Manger,” a Christmas song often sung just by children. But adults also need its message to wash away modern sophistication and replace skepticism with childlike faith.

This song reminds us of Jesus’ purity. With no crib for a bed, “the little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.” With stars looking down, He was “asleep on the hay.” Every day and night, we can rest in Him: “I love Thee, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky and stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.”

Like children, we can know He is with us. We can ask Him to stay close by us forever and love us. We can entrust our friends and family to Him: “Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care and fit us for heaven to live with Thee there.”

Today, remember the simplicity of the Christmas message and how profoundly His birth can change our lives. Trust in Jesus. Let Him take away your burdens. Love Him. Stay close to Him, and allow Him to give you His peace.

Reflection Question: How has the message of Jesus’ birth changed your life?