AWAY IN A MANGER

Some claim the song "Away in a Manger" originated in Germany, and is believed by some to have been sung by Martin Luther to his children as a lullaby, founder of the Lutheran church and a known carol writer. However, no one really knows who wrote the first two verses, but many believe John T. McFarland wrote the third verse in 1904. Although many attribute this beloved Christmas carol to Luther, its origin goes back to the early 19th century in America. Originally published in 1885 by James R. Murray (1841-1905) in a Lutheran Sunday School book, this is commonly the first carol that children are taught. Few Christmas carols have the simplicity and tenderness of this song.



AWAY in a MANGER
Away in a manger, no crib for His 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 poor Baby wakes.
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes.
I love thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the siy,
And stay by the cradle till 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 Thy tender care
And take us to heaven, to live with Thee there.