December 20, 2015 (Sunday)
This cradle song is very popular at Christmas time, and can be found in several hymnals used by churches.
Although it was attributed at one time to Luther, investigation proves its origins are in America, probably Pennsylvania, where it first appeared in a Methodist hymnal around the year 1885. Authorship is not known for sure, although several names have been suggested.
Anonymous American Hymn 1885 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 bedside till morning is nigh. Be near me, lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay Close by me for ever and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, And fit us for heaven to live with thee there |
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