Ring (September 11)

Ring . . . ring . . . ring.
The bell resonates at the frequency of my soul,
Somehow shaking loose
          The tears I had managed to control.
Liberty, sweet liberty vibrates through the cold,
Melting and crumbling the walls that had tried to hold,
Emotions that trembled and then rolled
Down my cheek.

©2001 Bob Mason
 

I was moved and inspired as I heard a bell ringing on my radio, as NPR tried to express what was happening--it was either September 11, 2001 or the day after. I had watched live on television as the towers crumbled, numb and in shock. The ring of the bell released what I was feeling.

Where Strength Lies

“Go and change the world,” said Jesus,
Didn’t He?
“So we must we will,” said Peter,
Pitiably
Twelve to One hundred and fifty to make things new -
        sea change wrought by chosen few.

The task looms huge before them.
        - an empire ruled by might and war.
        - an empire fraught with sin and more.
“Clearly to succeed, we must meet might with might!”
“Clearly, to proceed, we must enforce the right!”
        With sword - for sword rules in this awful age,
        With men empow’red with righteous rage.

Stealing softly on the wind,
        A different voice comes pressing in.
Echoes ring in Peter’s ear.
        A truth once heard advances near.

                If my kingdom were of this world,
                        then would my servants fight. (John 18:36)
                All they that take the sword
                        shall perish with the sword. (Mt. 26:52)

“How then, Lord, must your cause prevail?”
“How then stand, as foes assail?”

                Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,
                         saith the Lord of hosts. (Zech. 4:6)

All other strength
                               Lies.

©1994 Bob Mason