Thought, Deed, and Motive
by J. Randal Matheny © 2012
Think James 2 and Matthew 6
Not just the thought, nor good intent,
And less the wish but vaguely formed,
None count for ought; how well we meant,
But little we did: "Be filled and warmed!"
For man and God, the pan is proof,
The bowl and spoon for a brother's need,
The covering shirt and sheltering roof,
Supplied and fitting, with prudent speed;
The time is past to stay aloof,
The hour demands the proper deed.
But even the deed alone falls short,
(The act can hide the simmering lie);
God cares to see, in sovereign court,
Within the heart, the reason why.
