Gates and Doors

(For Richardson Little Wright)     There was a gentle hostler     (And blessed be his name!)     He opened up the stable     The night Our Lady came.     Our Lady and Saint Joseph,     He gave them food and bed,     And Jesus Christ has given him     A glory round his head.     So let the gate swing open     However poor the yard,     Lest weary people visit you     And find their passage barred;     Unlatch the door at midnight     And let your lantern's glow     Shine out to guide the traveler's feet     To you across the snow.     There was a courteous hostler     (He is in Heaven to-night)     He held Our Lady's bridle     And helped her to alight;     He spread clean straw before her     Whereon she might lie down,     And Jesus Christ has given him     An everlasting crown.     Unlock the door this evening     And let your gate swing wide,     Let all who ask for shelter     Come speedily inside.     What if your yard be narrow?     What if your house be small?     There is a Guest is coming     Will glorify it all.     There was a joyous hostler     Who knelt on Christmas morn     Beside the radiant manger     Wherein his Lord was born.     His heart was full of laughter,     His soul was full of bliss     When Jesus, on His Mother's lap,     Gave him His hand to kiss.     Unbar your heart this evening     And keep no stranger out,     Take from your soul's great portal     The barrier of doubt.     To humble folk and weary     Give hearty welcoming,     Your breast shall be to-morrow     The cradle of a King.