VINE AND ALMOND

In the perfection of normality

The Vine grew up before the Father’s sight;

At every stage of His humanity

Christ’s features gave the Father’s heart delight:

The bud was the dependant little child;

The blossom was the enquiring subject boy;

The Man, as holy, harmless, undefiled,

Was straitened to ensure the Father’s joy.

But in one night the almond came to fruit -

One staff displayed fresh life amid dead staves;

In power which sin or death cannot dispute

One Man arose from myriads in their graves.

Christ’s resurrection is miraculous

And a new life gives joy to God - and us.

Another old sonnet rediscovered.