Poetry list
Clavis Christi
He came
and unlocked
every heart
and cell
and vault.
He left the key
for me and you
—and all.
In trust, in love
we’re free or fettered.
Can I choose?
Where then is the key
when all is locked
and blocked?
It lies close by
so small and hid
my pride can scarcely bend
to touch and reach it.
Amidst the cries of cruelties,
the screams of crucified life
there is the silence of my prison
and the comfort of my selfish cell.
My health, my wealth, my stealth
are the very bars of self.
Unlocked by Christmas Christ
and Friday’s Calvary friend
yet freedom’s risk
may still not be my choice.
I am the key, the lock, the grave:
sweet grace and life are Christ’s alone.
© Neil Thompson 2013