Three related but conflicting images of our God and the responses we might take. The conflict is resolved in the final verse which is based on the scriptural passage Isaiah 30:21-22. Note that the central image is God with eternal character, whereas the other images show God as temporal.
Left Panel: Look ahead
when God will make a new heaven and a new earth
without darkness.
Grasp hold of all that is bright, clean and new,
and destroy anything that blocks advance to a better future.
Do it!
Our wrathful God of Judgement Day is going to require it.
Right Panel: Restore old times
when God held everything in harmony
and there was peace.
Preserve all that was precious,
and destroy anything that blocks return to the glorious past.
Do it!
Our Ancient of Days has commanded it.
Centre Panel: Dwell today
In God who holds together the past and the future,
find rest in Him.
Love both revolutionary and reactionary
though neither reciprocates.
Stand unarmed in the path of one destruction, or both.
Our eternal God of mercy suggests it.”
Whether you turn to right or left
Your ears will hear a voice
Behind you, saying, “This is the way,
Walk in it” — dump those toys!
God speaks to us who live the Book
Both here and far beyond.
My ears may hear that gentle voice,
But does my heart respond?
Peter Dixon