Taking God's Name in Vain

Most swearing is a cry for help: 
whether “Dammit” or “Damn You”
in form.

Whether God’s name is even mentioned 
is not important.
The intent is clear.

Such cries express serious frustration
and may be understood 
as desperate cries for help.

And what about “taking in vain”?  
That depends on God
and whether God chooses to respond. 

But why should we be bothering God
with our petty hates
or even our festering fears?

It’s my sense that God,
experiencing in Christ human life,
understands frustration.

That’s the joy of grace: 
God has personal knowledge of our needs.
We needn’t ask.
 
But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t,
if asking itself provides comfort…
or the use of “damn.”