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