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.