If He Appeared

If Jesus appeared before you

would he be recognized at once?

Would you recognize, or criticize,

or label him a dunce?

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If he appeared before you

would you think, 'His hair's too long?'

Would you recognize, or criticize,

or greet him with a song?

-

If he appeared before you

would you note, 'His teeth aren't straight!'

Would you recognize, or criticize,

or realize...too late?

-

If he appeared before you

in the midst of a great crowd

Would you recognize, or criticize,

and speak your peace out loud?

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If he walked through the mall last night,

I think no one would figure out

that it was he who spoke the Truth,

and so they'd toss him out.

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The hippie with the sandaled feet

would be tossed into the street,

and no one would really bother

to worry about the heat.

- Bud Jenness