A tiny secluded manger, with its sweet-smelling straw and its lowing cattle, comprised the homely stage upon which the most striking and significant drama of the centuries was enacted. It was there that God, in the Person of His Son, Jesus Christ, became identified with man. In meekness and humility, He came to earth as the Prince of Peace.

 Christmas is a time of miracles. The angelic chorus, lowly shepherds, a humble manger as the birthplace of deity — all are miraculous happenings!
                            -Kenneth W. Osbeck-

    Away in a manger, no crib for a 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 Baby awakes,
    but little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes;
    I love Thee, Lord Jesus! Look down from the sky,
    and stay by my 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 fit us for heaven, to live with Thee there.

                    -John Thomas McFarland, 1851-1913