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 naught

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, babes in the byre

Sleep, as they sleep who find their heart's desire

Sleep, as they sleep who find their heart's desire

Their heart's desire