Away in a Manger:

“I love thee Lord Jesus, look down from the sky, and stay by my side until morning is nigh”

Written by Jo Oughton

It's Christmas morning at Church, there is a feeling of excitement and anticipation in the air as the children come to the front, dressed in their finest clothes, and holding onto their newly acquired toys from Santa. The Vicar asks them to sing ‘Away in a Manger’ and everyone holds their breath, leaning in to listen as the children's voices fill the room. For parents, this moment is very special as they watch their little ones take part in the Christmas celebration.

The line ‘I love thee Lord Jesus, look down from the sky and stay by my side until morning is nigh’ from the hymn expresses our love for Jesus and acknowledges the significance of his birth. The carol takes us on a journey back to the stable where we see God in human form, symbolizing the humility of the creator of the world.

The birth of Jesus as a vulnerable child in an unassuming stable reminds us of how God humbled himself to save humanity. The advent season allows us to reflect on the significance of the birth of Jesus, whilst awaiting the festival itself. This baby was born to overturn death and save the world, which is why this children's carol has become so well-loved. As we prepare to celebrate Christmas and get swept up in the whirlwind of our luxury sparkly holiday season, let's remember the centre of the season is that tiny baby that came to a troubled world to save it.