how many times, we ask
how often must I put up with it
that he gets away with stuff, again
she escapes punishment due
he walks all over people
she spreads malicious lies
distortions of the truth
he exploits, abuses his power
how long until justice, how long

but how long before I'm aware
the he and she that's hiding in me
my crimes, my misdemeanours
my short-comings and worse
sheltering behind a smokescreen
those complaints really about me
best quietly ignored, hopefully
the embarrassment avoided
responsibility ducked

I need, you need, we need
someone more reliable
consistent come what may
certain despite the vagaries of life
trustworthy through all its storms
whose steadfast love never ceases
nor mercies ever come to an end
who greets us new every morning
great in his faithfulness

sadly humanity struggles, I do
despite best aspirations
need to look deeper, wider, higher


Fifth Sunday of Lent
6th April 2025
following Lamentations 3.22-23