The powerlessness of hate to touch God's man
Was proved by Daniel in the lions' den.
"My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut
The lions' mouths" that they have done no harm.
Here was no contest with devouring beasts
(Resentment, hitting back, must always lose!)
The persecutions of material sense,
Injustice, animality, and hate,
Found no response in innocence and love,
That love which sees creation wholly good,
Where man beloved and lion and gentle lamb
Shall dwell together, harmless, satisfied.
Such innocence and childlike trust in God
Will always shut each lion's mouth with Love.
