Away in a manger, no crib for His 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
As a cowdog, I know something about mangers. I have been in plenty of barns, with stalls for the horses and cows, most with some kind of manger in the back corner. The ones I know are usually built of wood, worn from years of use and livestock leaning against them. I’ve watched mom and dad throw in hay, usually in the early darkness of winter, then listened to the contented munching as the critters consume the fragrant dry grass. They like the warm, dry shelter, instead of eating out in the snow. 
A few times, I’ve slept in the cool shade of a manger after a hot summer day chasing cows.
No one really sees them, they are just the inconsequential structure where hay is tossed. But when you need one, they sure are important. Even the worst old barn has better shelter than outside. Personally, I hate the dark and cold, and don’t much care for snow on my back and ice in my paws.
There must have been extreme relief and comfort in seeing the manger, for that couple long ago. Certainly not the place most would seek out for the birth of a special child. But a safe place of comfort. That welcomed shelter animals know.
What kind of peace did they find there?
That is what we all need this season, this year. Shelter from the storm, and a little peace. Take time to find that this Christmas season. 
I want to say MERRY CHRISTMAS to everyone, from this old cowdog, with a few photos of my Montana.
It is my hope every dog and cat has a warm home and loving family too. Please remember the shelter animals this Christmas and all year. They need a Christmas miracle more than most.
May the meaning of Christmas – the special gift of a Savior that we all desperately need – rest in your heart and make this night, Christmas Day, this season, your needed Peace. Jesus came for you!
