Reading the label

Reading the label                                                                      

The mystery can’t be put into words

but it can be written in blood; 

shaped by the arrangement

of certain human bones.

Truth walked the earth; took in the view –

It’s rambunctious body upsetting the bullock cart –

pulses aflutter;

necks craned and blushing,

ears pricked up; heart-throats,

long empty, suddenly filled with song.

The blood of Jesus is precious

because it runs thick with the mystery of Love.

Reaching for Your garment –

(when You wore Your Jesus robe)

the infirm woman needed not scripture ...

but the soul-stirring presence of the Soul of souls

moving majestically through the pressing crowd.

O child of God, please understand – reading

the wine bottle’s label will never make you drunk.

                                    (from A Jewel in the Dust)