A Thought for Today
Healing of the Nations
With laurel leaves
the winners crowned
Olympian effort applauded
With laurel leaves
the emperor crowned
power and force rewarded
How then to crown
the Lord of Life
the Saviour long-expected?
With sharp, hard thorns
was Jesus wreathed
prophecy and love contorted.
Crushed, healing herbs
dressed wounds and hurts
bodies whole again
Lest we forget
the dying sun
green shoots, new life
still comes.
Amen.
* * * * *
About this poem
Our congregation took part in the Living the Questions study programme some years ago. This poem is a response to the session on the book of Revelation.
It contrasts the way ancient Greek Olympic champions, Roman emperors and Jesus were crowned. This leads to thoughts about commemorating those who died or were injured in war.
Like the book of Revelation, the poem finishes on a hopeful note of renewal and growth.
This poem is found in my collection of, music, prayers and poems: Kindle a Flame
which you can download as a free 30 page PDF eBook when you sign up for our email newsletters.