Shape and Substance

It is no small thing to say
god bless this our land.
Blessing might well be
curse if proffered
by the wrong god.

It is no small thing to name
the child, god-with-us.
Like a gladius
it cuts both ways
when rightly swung.

It is no small thing to cry
hosanna, when we
can so rarely think
of things from which
we need saving.

It is no small thing to claim
he is risen when
anyone can see
the stone-sealed tomb
is undisturbed.