How Far Is It To Bethlehem

How far is it to Bethlehem?
Not very far
Shall we find the stable room lit by a star?

Can we see the little child?
Is he within?
If we lift the wooden latch, may we go in?

May we stroke the creatures there, ox, ass or sheep?
May we peep like them and see Jesus asleep?
If we touch his tiny hand, will he awake?

Will he know we've come so far just for his sake?
Great kings have precious gifts, and we have nought
Little smiles and little tears are all we brought

For all weary children, Mary must weep
Here, on his bed of straw, sleep, children, sleep
God in his mother's arms, babe in the byre
Sleep, as they sleep who find, their hearts' desire