The group formed in 1983 out of Sydney, Australia, where they were located at Hillsong Church, while now they are spread across the globe. Their members have gone on to individually successful careers, the likes of Darlene Zschech, Marty Sampson, Brooke Fraser, Reuben Morgan, and Joel Houston. The group was called Hillsong Live, until June 2014, when they took the name, Hillsong Worship.
Away in a Manger
Hillsong Worship Lyrics
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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 you, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask you to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray
Bless all the dear children in your tender care
And fit us for heaven, to live with you there
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
Then my little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay
I love you, I love you, Thank You Jesus
Ohhhhh Thank You
The first verse of Hillsong Worship's rendition of "Away in a Manger" brings to life the humble beginnings of the story of Jesus Christ. The song paints a picture of a child born in a manger, with no crib to lay his head on. The verse also mentions the stars in the sky, perhaps as a reminder of the heavenly significance of the child's birth. The second verse of the song focuses on the peaceful slumber of baby Jesus, even amidst the lowing of cattle. The lyrics express the adoration of the singer towards the little Lord Jesus, while also asking for his presence through the night until morning comes. The third and final verse shifts the focus from the humble beginnings of the child to a prayer for his continued blessings upon all the dear children in his tender care, concluding with the aspiration of living with him in heaven one day.
Overall, this classic Christmas hymn celebrates the love and care of baby Jesus in a humble stable, showing the deep appreciation of the singer for the significance of Christ's birth. Additionally, through its simple yet deep expressions of gratitude, the song touches on the universal aspects of faith and spirituality, reminding us of the love that transcends all boundaries and divisions.
Line by Line Meaning
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed
The baby Jesus was born in a humble place, with no fancy crib for him to sleep in.
The little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head
Despite not having a crib, Jesus was able to sleep soundly, laying his head on the hay.
The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay
The peaceful scene of baby Jesus sleeping in the manger was observed by the stars in the sky.
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay
Jesus slept calmly in the humble manger, resting on the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes
The sounds of the cattle caused the baby Jesus to wake up.
But little Lord Jesus no crying he makes
Despite the noise, Jesus did not cry, exemplifying his gentle nature.
I love you, Lord Jesus, look down from the sky
A request for Jesus to look down and see the love from those on Earth.
And stay by my side until morning is nigh
A request for Jesus to provide comfort and companionship till morning.
Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask you to stay
A plea for Jesus to stay close to offer support and guidance.
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray
An expression of the desire to have Jesus' forever love and care.
Bless all the dear children in your tender care
A request for Jesus to bless and care for all children with his nurturing love.
And fit us for heaven, to live with you there
A request for Jesus to prepare us for eternal life in heaven, to live with him forever.
I love you, I love you, Thank You Jesus
An expression of gratitude and love for Jesus.
Ohhhhh Thank You
An expression of thankfulness to Jesus for his immense love and blessings.
Writer(s): Russell Fragar
Contributed by Molly L. Suggest a correction in the comments below.