The Innkeeper’s Key
“Mary and Joseph had come to stay
But each lodging place turned them away.
At the last place they tried, still no room at all
Except for a simple hay-filled stall.
Thanks to one man’s kindness to those needy strangers
Jesus’ life began, safe in a lowly manger.
This innkeeper’s key is a symbol of
How a simple act fills the world with love.
Keep this key, and remember God’s love is the reason
We are filled with blessings each Christmas season.”*
But wait, is that enough –
Just keep the key to remember the reason for the season?
Rather, shouldn’t we keep the key – yes
Keep it where we might always be able to see -
For the sad, the lonely, the ill and bereaved
Have no certain season to show forth their need.
We have a key like the Innkeeper did.
Jesus gave each of us one when he said
Love one another as I have loved you.
Imagine keys being used all over the world
Opening the hearts of men like
Endless waves of clear water hitting against the shore
Till acts of love and service permeate the entire earth.
Why not turn your key and let him in.
Ione Mortensen *original text by Les Hollowed