Away in a Manger (stanza 1)
Away in a manger, no crib for His 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.
Every Christmas Eve and during every Christmas pageant, for as long as I can remember, children and the congregation join in singing this beloved hymn. And, every year I become teary-eyed as I am reminded of the miracle of His birth, the gift of His life, and the wonder and beauty of the celebration of Christmas as interpreted by the young, sweet, pure voices of children.
I love to remember all of the Christmas pageants in which my children participated. Their first pageant parts were always walking timidly down the church aisle as cows, sheep and donkeys – aspiring, of course, to be angels - and then scrambling to find the best seats on the straw, nearest their friends. Becoming tall enough to light the candles, marked their debut as acolytes, tentatively balancing the candle lighter, and me being certain they were going to light someone’s hair on fire. Waiting for the familiar “squeak” from my daughter’s clarinet during the school Christmas concert still brings a tear to my eye. I recall the school gymnasium with the foil stars stapled to the stage curtain, the band seated on the basketball court and the choir assembled in the bleachers – everyone dressed in their best church clothes. The entire scene represents a Norman Rockwell painting.
Now, my grandchildren are dressed as cows, sheep – even a chick! – in their church Christmas pageants. And, I do not miss a school holiday concert. They are still held in the gymnasium, and now include songs representing a diversity of ethnic groups. The variety of music reminds us that Jesus’ love does indeed encompass the whole world.
The ever-enduring songs and music of children remind us of that event that occurred over two thousand years ago. The birth of beautiful baby Jesus, in a stable, with animals as his companions, and straw for his bed represent the reason for foil stars, a sheep costume, a beginning band’s musical rendition of a favorite hymn – what better way to demonstrate gratitude and love?
Be near us Lord Jesus; We ask Thee to stay close by us forever and love us we pray. Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, and fit us for heaven to live with Thee there. Amen.
Judy Burch
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