Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. John (Chapter 20)
It was the day one of the week;
When dawn broke, Mary Magdalene
Came early to the tomb, though dark
And saw the stone large, set aside!
She hurried to Simon Peter,
And other one, whom Jesus loved,
And said, ‘The Lord has been taken.
We don’t know where they have put Him.’
So, Peter with the other one,
Both ran towards the tomb at once;
The other disciple reached first,
But did not go into the tomb.
He bent down, saw the burial clothes!
Then Peter went into the tomb and saw
And saw the burial clothes lie there;
The cloth that covered Jesus’ head
Lay rolled up in a separate place.
The other disciple went in
And saw, believed the state of things;
For, they didn’t know the scripture say:
‘He had to rise from dead, third day! ’
The two disciples returned home.
But Mary stayed outside the tomb;
Bending over the tomb, she wept;
She saw two angels in white there:
One at the head, one at the feet,
Where Jesus’ body had been laid.
They asked, ‘Woman, why do you weep?
She said, ‘They’ve taken the Lord away!
I don’t know where they have laid Him.’
At as she said, she turned around,
Saw Jesus but didn’t recognize.
Jesus asked her, ‘Woman, why weep?
Whom are you searching for right here? ’
She thought it was the gardener.
She asked him, ’Sir, please tell me where
You’ve laid Jesus and I’ll take Him! ’
Then Jesus called to her, ‘Mary!
She said in Hebrew, ‘Rabbouni! ’
Then Jesus said, ‘Stop holding to me;
I’ve not ascended to Father.
But go and tell my brothers all,
I’m going to my Father, God! ’
Then Mary Magdalene went back,
Told all disciples, all she saw.
While disciples stayed with doors locked,
For fear of Jews and evening came:
Then, Jesus stood in their ’midst, said,
‘Peace be with you, peace be with you!
As Father sent me, I send you.’
He breathed on them and said to them,
‘Receive the Holy Spirit now!
Whose sins you forgive, are forgiv’n,
Whose sins you retain, are retained.’
Thomas wasn’t there when Jesus came;
The others told, ‘We’ve seen the Lord.’
He said, ‘Unless I see the mark
Of nails in hands and side, and put
My finger into them, I’ll not
Believe in whatever you say.’
When Thomas was with disciples,
A week later, again inside,
Then Jesus came, though doors were locked,
And said to them, ‘Peace be with you! ’
He told Thomas, ‘Put your finger
Into my hands, into my side;
Don’t be unbelieving, Believe! ’
Then Thomas said, ‘My Lord, My God! ’
Then Jesus asked, ‘Do you believe
Because you have all seen me now?
Bless’d are those who haven’t, yet, believe! ’
Then Jesus did many more signs,
In presence of his disciples.
Copyright by Dr John Celes 5-27-2007
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. Mark (Chapter 16)
When Sabbath Day was o’er, Mary, Salome
And Mary Magdalene had bought spices,
To go anoint the body of Jesus.
They reached the tomb when sun has just risen;
On week’s first day, they wondered who will roll
The stone away for them at tomb’s entrance.
They came but saw the large stone rolled away!
Entering the tomb, they saw a young man sit,
In robe of white, clad; they were so amazed.
He said to them, “Don’t be amazed, you seek
Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified;
He’s not here; Behold the place He was laid!
He has been raised from the dead and alive”
Go tell His disciples and Peter too,
“He goes ahead to Galilee;
There they will see Him, as He told! ”
Afraid, they fled out of the tomb, trembling;
They did not speak to anyone right then.
Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene
And drove out seven demons, out of her.
She told her mourning companions of this.
They didn’t believe hearing He was alive;
He appeared in another form to two
Of them, while walking to the country-side.
They came and told the others about this.
He then appeared to eleven at table,
Rebuking them for utter disbelief,
Hardness of heart, despite being well told;
He said to them, “Go into the whole world,
Proclaim the Gospel to every creature! ”
Whoev’r believes and baptized, will be saved;
Whoever doesn’t believe will be condemned.
The signs that come to those who me believe:
They’ll drive out demons in my name;
And speak new languages;
They’ll pick up serpents with bare hands;
No poison that they drink can ev’r harm them;
By placing hands over the sick, they’re cured.
Soon after Jesus had spoken to them,
He was taken into heaven,
And took His seat at the right hand of God.
His disciples went forth and preached as told;
Lord worked with them and confirmed it by signs!
poem by John Celes
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. John (Chapter 11)
A man called Lazarus was ill,
Brother of Mary, Bethany;
This Mary had anointed Lord’s feet
By perfumed oil, dried by her hair!
So, Mary sent word to Jesus,
‘Master, the one you love is ill.’
(Meaning her brother Lazarus)
When Jesus heard, then He remarked,
‘This illness isn’t to end in death.
But for the glory of God’s works
And that the Son be glorified.’
Now Jesus loved Martha, Mary
And Lazarus who’d fallen ill;
He went to Judea later;
His disciples told Him, ‘Rabbi,
The Jews had wanted to stone you,
You want to go back to that place? ’
Then Jesus answered, ‘Are there not
Twelve hours by day for one to walk?
None stumble then for world has light.
But when he walks alone at night,
He stumbles as he has no sight!
Then Jesus said, ‘Friend Lazarus
Has gone asleep, let me wake him.’
They said, ‘If he sleeps, he’ll be saved! ’
But Jesus talked of deathly sleep,
While disciples, of slumber deep.
Jesus told, ‘Lazarus is dead! ’
Let’s go to him that you believe.
So, Thomas said, ‘Let’s die with him! ’
When Jesus reached Lazarus’ house,
He had died four days earlier.
Bethany lay two miles away!
Some Jews arrived to comfort them;
When Martha heard Jesus would come,
She went to meet; Mary sat home.
Then Martha told Him, ‘Lord, if you’d
Been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.’
‘But even now, I know whatev’r
You ask of God, He will give you.’
Jesus said, ‘Your brother will rise! ’
Martha replied, ‘Yes, Lord, I know,
He’ll resurrect on the last day.’
‘I am the resurrection, life! ’
Then Jesus said. ‘Whoev’r believes
In me, ev’n if he dies, will live!
And everyone who lives, believes
In me, will never die at all.
‘Do you believe this? ’ asked Jesus.
Then Martha replied, ‘Yes, my Lord.
I do believe you’re Son of God;
I know that you’re the Messiah,
The one who’s coming to the world!
She told her sister in secret,
‘The Teacher’s here and asks for you! ’
On hearing, Mary rose to greet.
But Jesus had not reached village.
When Mary saw Jesus, she fell
At his feet and said to Him, ‘Lord
If only you had been here then,
My brother would not be now dead.’
On seeing Mary and Jews weep,
Then Jesus perturbed, became sad.
He asked, ‘Where has he been entombed? ’
They said to Him, ‘Sir, come and see! ’
And Jesus wept while Jews all said,
‘Look, how He loved poor Lazarus! ’
But some remarked, ‘Could not the one
Who opened eyes of blind beggar,
Have done something to avoid death?
So, Jesus reached the place of tomb;
It was a cave with stone across;
Jesus said, ‘Take the stone away.
Then Martha said, ’Tis four days now,
Should there a stench be, all around? ’
Then Jesus asked, ‘Did I not tell
If you believe, God’s glory’s seen!
Then Jesus raised his eyes to Heav’n,
And said, ‘I thank you Father, God.
I know You always have heard me,
I said so, that they may believe.’
And having said this, Jesus cried,
‘Lazarus, Come out! ’ in voice loud.
The dead man came with hands, feet tied,
With burial bands and face cloth-wrapped.
So Jesus said, ‘Untie him soon! ’
Now many Jews who had come there,
Began to believe in Jesus.
But some went to the Pharisees,
And told them what he ‘ad done that day.
So, they convened the Sanhedrin,
And said, ‘What do we do hence-forth?
This man performs so many signs.’
If we leave Him alone for now,
All will believe in Him and Rome
Will take away, our nation whole.’
But one Caiaphas, high-priest that year
Remarked, ‘You know not anything,
Nor do you consider better
That one man dies, not more people
And whole nation may not perish,
And gather dispersed God’s children.’
They planned to kill Him, from that day!
So, Jesus didn’t walk in public,
And left for Ephraim, desert-town,
And there He stayed with disciples.
The Jewish Passover was near.
Many came to Jerusalem.
They looked for Jesus everywhere
And wondered if He will ev’r come.
For, Pharisees and chief priests all,
Had given orders to inform,
If they should come across Jesus,
So that, they could arrest Him soon.
Copyright by Dr John Celes 5-24-2007
poem by John Celes
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. Matthew (Chapter 28)
When Sabbath day was over then,
And week’s first day was still in dawn,
Mary and Mary Magdalene,
Both came to see the tomb again.
Behold, there came an earthquake great,
An angel came from heaven’s gate,
And having rolled away the stone,
The angel sat upon it lone.
He appeared bright akin lightning,
And dressed in white, snowy clothing;
The guards with fear lay shaken then,
And turned at once almost dead men!
The angel told the two women:
‘You fear not for, I’m from heaven!
You search for Him, Jesus, I know,
The one who was crucified, Oh! ’
‘He is not here, right now today;
He has been raised from dead, I say;
Come see the place wherein He lay.
Go tell His disciples this, Aye! ’
‘Raised from the dead, He goes ahead
To Galilee ’fore you, He said;
You can all see Him there, behold,
And certainly, as I have told! ’
The women left the tomb in haste;
Their visit had not been a waste;
Afilled with fear and joy, they ran
To tell His disciples, Oh, man! ’
But Jesus met them on their way;
And greeted them like a great Fay;
They fell and paid Him homage then,
Embracing feet of His divine!
And Jesus said to them, ‘Don’t fear.
Go tell my brothers all you hear;
Ask them to go to Galilee,
And there, they can all well see me.’
When they were hurrying to see them,
Some guards had reached city’s gates,
And told chief priests, the happenings.
They counseled with the elders there;
They gave the soldiers money fair;
And warned them to tell everyone:
His disciples stole Jesus when
They slept at night, as wearied men!
‘They promised them that they would save
From governor, if they behave;
And satisfy his questions well,
And keep them out of great trouble.’
The soldiers took the bribe-money;
They did as they were instructed;
Among the Jews, this false story,
Was wantonly circulated.
The disciples all eleven went
To Galilee’s mountain, as sent,
As ordered by Jesus and saw
Him, worshipped but doubted, in awe!
Then Jesus came and said to them,
‘All pow’r in earth and in heaven,
Has been to me, accorded then.
You go therefore to all nations,
And make more disciples of men.’
‘And baptize them in Father’s name,
Spread Son and Holy Spirit’s fame;
And teach them follow my commands,
And carry out heaven’s errands.’
‘Behold, I am with you always,
Until the end of age, all days! ’
Copyright by Dr John Celes 6-16-2007
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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O Jesus
O Jesus, peace be upon him, the one who was the Word of God…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, who came and was always in the Thoughts of God…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, he who was born of the Virgin Mary…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, and peace be upon his mother Mary…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, the one who the Holy Spirit of God was given…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, the one who in the name of God, casted out demons…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, the one they said slanderous things about…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, the one they tried to blot out…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, who came and was sinless…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, who came to the temple and became relentless…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, who came to the Israelites to teach them the Gospel…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, who came and did things that were impossible…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, he who is the Prophet and Christ…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, he who the Scriptures prophesised…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, he who Almighty God raised up…
O Jesus, peace be upon him, he who Almighty God will send back and amaze us.
poem by Russel Choudhury
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. John (Chapter 2)
There was a wedding in Cana,
And Jesus’ mother had gone there;
Invited was Jesus also;
His disciples attended too.
When wine ran short, His mother told,
Jesus, “They have no wine to serve.”
But Jesus asked. back, ‘Why tell me? ’
“How does that concern me? ” He asked.
“My hour has not yet come.” He said.
His mother told the servers all,
“Do whatev’r He tells you to do.”
There were six water-jars of stone,
Meant for Jewish ceremonies.
Each could hold some thirty gallons.
When Jesus told, ‘Fill up the jars
With water up to brim, ’ they did.
Then Jesus told them, ‘Draw out some
And take it to the head-waiter.’
The Head-waiter tasted new wine.
He knew not wherefrom this wine came.
He called the bridegroom and told him,
“All serve the good wine initially.
When people have drunk one less good,
You’ve kept the good wine until now? ”
This was his first miracle done
In Cana town, in Galilee.
His disciples believed in Him.
Thus was revealed His glory first!
All went to Capernaum later.
They stayed there only for few days.
Then Jesus reached Jerusalem,
As Passover was nearing fast.
And in the temple area then,
He saw some selling animals;
Some money-changers were there too.
He made a whip out of some cords,
And drove them out of temple fast.
He spilled the money of changers,
And over-turned their tables too.
He told the dove-sellers to leave.
He warned them not to make the house
Of His Father, a market-place!
His disciples recalled scripture,
‘Zeal for your house will consume me! ’
The Jews then asked Jesus to show
The sign for doing thus, that day.
And Jesus answered them and said,
‘Destroy this temple; in three days,
I’ll raise it up! ’ He firmly said.
‘The Temple took forty-six years
For construction, ’ the Jews all said.
‘You’ll raise it in just three days time? ’
But He meant His body’s temple.
When Jesus was raised from the dead,
His disciples remembered this.
They came to believe the scripture
And what was foretold by Jesus.
While Jesus in Jerusalem
And Feast of the Passover came,
So many believed in His name,
When they had seen the signs He did.
But Jesus didn’t trust anyone.
He knew the people all around.
He did not need one to tell Him.
He understood human nature!
Copyright by Dr John Celes 5-21-2007
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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The Tomb Is Empty
Face it friend, the tomb is empty; death couldn’t hold Christ, you see,
Although He died for you and me, He’s now on the Throne of Eternity.
The stone, covering where Christ lay, by God’s hand, was rolled away.
In that tomb where Christ was laid, only Christ’s grave clothes stayed,
There He stood, in a body Glorified, Jesus Christ, who bled and died.
Mary was the first one to that tomb, bearing a heart filled with gloom,
She assumed the body was taken, but she would be gladly mistaken,
For, with her heavy heart that day, she would soon hear an angel say,
You will not find Christ Jesus dead, for He rose just like He had said.
She left to tell others not to grieve, for The Lord, they too would see.
Now Mary filled with a joyful heart, from an empty tomb would depart,
Filled with wonder she ran to those, other disciples, to say Christ rose.
Peter began running fast ahead; as they had thought Christ was dead,
Now he ran with much anticipation, enthused by a brand new situation,
Looking inside he just saw clothes, for from the grave Christ had rose.
But all hearts stayed, like the tomb, until Christ entered into that room,
Showing them His hands and side, proving He was The One who died.
Christ would stay for forty days, filling their hearts with joy and praise,
Filing them with His Hope and victory, that will last through all eternity,
Where they shall remain forevermore, with their Savior, Christ our Lord.
(Copyright ©04/2007)
Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. Matthew (Chapter 17)
Then Jesus took Peter, James, John,
And led them up a high mountain;
He was transfigured before them,
His face illumined like the sun;
His clothes became white like bright light!
Behold, then Moses, Elijah,
Appeared to converse with Jesus.
Then Peter told Jesus up there:
‘’Tis good that we are here, O Lord.
If you so wish, we’ll make tents three,
One for Moses, Elijah, you! ’
While Peter was still speaking thus,
A bright cloud cast its shadow there;
A voice from within cloud then said,
‘This is my Son, beloved one,
In whom, I’m pleased, listen to Him! ’
The disciples fell prostrate then,
On having heard the voice fearsome!
But Jesus came and touched them, said:
‘Arise and do not be afraid! ’
And then His disciples now saw,
There was no one, except Jesus.
While descending the mountain, then,
Said Jesus to them, ‘Do not tell
About the vision to someone,
Until the Son of Man be raised
From dead after three days had passed! ’
His disciples then asked Him why
Scribes say must come, Elijah first?
He said, ‘Indeed, Elijah will
Come and restore, all things aright.’
‘He has already come, I say,
And they did not recognize him;
But did to him as they so pleased.
The Son of Man will suff’r like-wise!
The disciples mis-understood,
He spoke of John, the Baptist then.
When they approached a crowd, a man
Knelt down and begged of Him and said,
‘Pity my son, O Lord Jesus,
A lunatic, he suffers much;
He falls into the fire oft,
And falls in water too often.
I brought him to your disciples,
But they could not cure his illness.’
Then, Jesus said, ‘O faithless ones,
Behold, perverse generation:
How long should I be with you all?
How long must I endure your wrongs? ’
‘Just bring him here to me, ’ He said.
When Jesus chided him, there came,
A demon out of him too soon;
The boy was cured at that instant.
When disciples asked Him, ‘Why Lord,
Why couldn’t we drive the demon out? ’
He said, ‘Because of little faith.’
‘Amen, I say to you that if
Your faith although be mustard-sized,
If when you order mountain, ‘Move!
It will move then immediately.
Nothing’s impossible for you.’
In Galilee, then Jesus said,
‘The Son of Man will handed be,
To men and they will kill Him then,
The third day, He’ll arise alive.’
And they were overwhelmed with grief.
When they had come to Capernaum,
The temple-tax collectors came;
They asked Peter, ‘Doesn’t your teacher
Regularly pay temple tax?
They answered, ‘Yes! ’ and entered house;
Then Jesus asked Simon Peter,
‘What is your opinion, tell me? ’
From whom do kings collect toll-tax?
Is it from subjects or aliens? ’
When they replied, ‘From foreigners, ’
Jesus said, ‘Subjects are exempt.’
‘That we may not offend tax-men,
Then Jesus told to go to sea,
And catch the first fish that comes up,
Open its mouth, you’ll find coin,
Worth twice the temple-tax; Pay them
For me and also for you then! ’
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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White Republican Male Jesus?
White Republican Male Jesus?
what about...
black Jesus, brown Jesus,
Asian Jesus, atheist Jesus,
female Jesus, poor Jesus,
jobless Jesus, prison Jesus,
homeless Jesus, illegal immigrant Jesus?
dog Jesus, cat Jesus,
baby in a dumpster Jesus,
addict Jesus, old Jesus?
gay Jesus, union Jesus,
hungry Jesus, foreign Jesus?
bumming a cup of coffee Jesus?
brother Jesus, sister Jesus?
just bombed Jesus,
food stamp Jesus?
how many bodies? how many crosses?
you tell me!
poem by Eric Cockrell
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. Luke (Chapter 24)
The Resurrection:
1 On week’s first day, early morning,
The women took prepared spices,
And went to see the tomb, by walk.
2 They found the stone across the tomb’s
Entrance just rolled away aside;
3 But when they entered, they didn’t find
The body of the Lord Jesus.
4 And while they wondered about this,
There came two men so suddenly,
In clothes that gleamed like lightning white,
And stood beside them, causing fright.
5 The frightened women bowed face down,
With faces looking to the ground,
The men asked them, 'Why do you look
For living souls among the dead?
6 He is not here; He has risen!
Remember how He had told you,
While He ‘as with you in Galilee:
7 'The Son of Man must handed be,
Over to hands of sinful men,
Who’ll crucify Him unto death,
But on third day, He’ll be raised.'
“8 They remembered then Jesus’ words.
9 When they had gone back from the tomb,
They told these things to Eleven,
And others too, who were their friends.
10 It was then Mary Magdalene,
Joanna, Mary, James’ mother,
And others told the apostles.
11 They didn’t believe the women’s talk,
Because their words seemed like nonsense.
12 But Peter got up, ran to tomb.
He bent over the tomb and saw
The strips of linen lie aside,
And went away, thinking within,
His mind as to what had happened.
On the Road to Emmaus:
13 That same day then, some two of them
Were going to Emmaus village,
Seven miles from Jerusalem.
14 They talked to each other of things
That happened on the previous days.
15 While talking and discussing things,
Jesus Himself came up and walked,
Along with them; but they knew not.
16 They could not recognize Him then.
17 He asked them both, 'What’s the matter
You’re discussing as you walk on? '
They stood aghast, faces downcast.
18 So, one of them, named Cleopas,
Asked Him, 'Are you a visitor just
To Jerusalem? Don’t you know
The things that have happened these days? '
19 'What things? ” the stranger asked of them.
'Of Nazarene Christ, ' they replied.
'He was a prophet, powerful
In word and deed, ’fore God, people.
20 The chief priests and our rulers then
Handed Him o’er on death sentence;
They crucified Him and He died;
21 But we’d hoped that He was the one
Who would redeem Israel at last.
And what’s more perplexing is that
On third day, since all this took place.
22 Some of our women amazed us.
They went to see the tomb early,
23 But did not find His body there.
They came and told they’d seen angels,
Who said He had risen alive.
24 Then some of us went to the tomb,
And found it just as women said,
But Him, they did not see at all.'
25 He said to them, 'How foolish you’re,
And slow of heart to believe all
That prophets have spoken earlier!
26 Didn‘t Christ have to suffer these things
And then enter His glorious Home? '
27 And starting with Moses, Prophets,
He explained to them what was said
In Scriptures all concerning Him.
28 As they approached the said village,
Jesus pretended to go on.
29 But they urged Him strongly to stay,
'For, it was nearly evening;
The day was almost over then.'
So Jesus went to stay with them.
30 When at the table with them all,
He took the bread, gave thanks, broke it
And gave it to them, one by one.
31 Their eyes were opened, all at once
And when they recognized Him then,
He disappeared from their sight fast.
32 They asked each other, 'Weren’t our hearts
Burning within us, while He talked
About the Scriptures on the road? ”
33 They returned to Jerusalem.
They found the Eleven there and those
With them, assembled together,
34 And saying, 'It is true! The Lord
Has risen, appeared to Simon.'
35 They told what had happened en way,
And how Jesus was recognized
By them when He had broken bread.
Jesus Appears to His Disciples
36 While they were talking still like this,
Then Jesus Himself stood ’mongst them
And said to them, 'Peace be with you.'
37 So startled and frightened were they!
They thought they saw a ghost that hour.
38 He asked them, 'Why are you troubled,
And why do doubts rise in your minds?
39 'O look at my hands and my feet! '
’Tis I myself! Just touch and see;
A ghost hasn’t flesh and bones like me.”
40 When He had said this, He then showed
His apostles, His hands and feet.
41 And while they still did not believe,
Because of joy and amazement,
He asked, 'Do you have food to eat? '
42 They gave a piece of broiled fish then;
He ate it all in their presence;
44 He said, 'This is what I told you
While I was still with you earlier:
All must be fulfilled that is writ
In Law of Moses about me,
And Prophets and Psalms in Scriptures.”
45 Then Christ opened their minds and
They could understand Scriptures.
46 He told them, 'This is what’s written:
‘Christ will suffer and rise from dead
On third day,47 When repentance and
Forgiveness of sins will be preached,
In His name to nations, starting
At Jerusalem.48 Witnesses
Are you of all these things you see.
49 I’m going to send what my Father
Has promised; Stay in the city
Till clothed with power from on high.'
The Ascension:
50 When He ‘ad led them near Bethany,
He lifted up His hands, blessed them.
51 While He was blessing them, He left
Them and was taken to Heaven.
52They worshiped Him and then returned
To Jerusalem with great joy.
53 And they stayed at temple for long time,
And praised the Living God, Most High.
(7-7-2007)
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. John (Chapter 9)
Jesus saw a man, blind since birth;
His disciples asked Him, ‘Rabbi,
By whose sins was the man born blind-
His own sins or that of parents’? ’
So, Jesus answered them, ‘Neither.
It is so that the works of God
Be manifested through the man.
The day is meant for all to work;
The night is for slumber and rest.’
‘While in this world, I am the light.’
Then Jesus spat on ground near-by
And mixed the clay with saliva;
He smeared the clay over man’s eyes
And said, ’ Go wash in Siloam Pool! ’
The man did so and got vision.
The beggar was able to see!
The neighbors saw and then remarked,
‘Isn’t this the beggar who was blind? ’
The beggar replied, ‘Yes, I am! ’
They asked, ‘How were your eyes opened? ’
The man described the whole story.
They asked him, ‘Where is Jesus now?
The beggar said, ‘I do not know.’
They brought the man to Pharisees;
Now Jesus did the miracle,
On Sabbath day and all knew that.
The Pharisees queried the man;
They said, ‘This man is not from God!
He does not keep the Sabbath-day.
How can a sinful man do signs?
They asked the beggar’s opinion;
He told them, ‘He is a prophet! ’
The Jews summoned his parents then
And enquired about their son;
His parents said, ‘He was born blind.’
But they didn’t know how he saw then.
They neither knew the healer’s name;
They told them to ask the beggar.
His parents were afraid of Jews;
If anyone believed Jesus,
And acknowledged Him, Messiah,
They were expelled from synagogue.
They called the beggar once again,
And asked him to give praise to God,
For, Jesus was a sinner great!
The man replied, ‘I do not know
If Jesus is a sinner great;
One thing was true that I was blind
And Jesus helped to make me see, ’
They asked him for more details then;
The beggar lost his cool and said,
‘Do you wish to be disciples? ’
They ridiculed the beggar-man
And said, ‘We are Moses’ disciples!
We don’t know where Jesus is from? ’
The man answered them quite bravely,
‘Isn’t it amazing that although,
You do not know who Jesus is,
Yet, He had made me to see then? ’
‘God does not listen to sinners;
If one’s devout, God listens then.
So far no one had given sight
To man who was blind, since his birth.’
‘If Jesus did not come from God,
He wouldn’t do miracles like this.’
They told the man, ‘You’re born in sin;
So, do not try to preach to us.
They drove the beggar-man away!
Then Jesus heard of incident;
He found the beggar-man and asked,
‘Do you believe in Son of Man? ’
He queried, ‘Who is he, tell me
So that, I may believe in Him.’
Then Jesus said, ‘You have seen Him;
The one speaking to you is He! ’
The man believed and worshipped Him.
Then Jesus said, ‘I came in here,
Into this world for judgment just,
And make ones who couldn’t see, to see,
And those who see become so blind.’
Some Pharisees who heard him said,
‘Surely we’re blind, are we not then? ’
Jesus told them, ‘If you were blind,
You wouldn’t have sins, but as you see,
Your sin remains and you are blind! ’
Copyright by Dr John Celes 5-23-2007
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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I Am Ascending To My Father
I have fallen upon my knees heavily; God cast
me down, before entering this holy sacred spot;
the Garden of Gethsemane, in the Kidron valley;
among those ancient olive trees I pondered
upon my pilgrimage way, their twisted arms their
gnarled trunks, witnessed Jesus pass this way;
blood my Lord sweated here in fear in agony
his prayers to heaven, to his father were carried;
but the bitter cup he bore, could be not removed.
I have walked upon the sacred Via Dolorosa
where Christ carried our bloody cross, chastised
first, by his whipped tortured stripes, we are healed. 1 Peter 2: 24.
I have walked upon the Hill of Calvary Golgotha
where the New Testament describes Jesus, crucified
entered, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, venerated.
Here once many women viewed the crucifixion
from a distance, here by the Cross, three Marys’ stood
Christ’s mother, her sister Mary and Mary Magdalene. John 19: 25.
Here the sepulchre the Church of the Resurrection
acclaimed to be the site, of the resurrection, of Jesus
here while weeping, Mary Magdalene, stooped forward
looked into the memorial tomb and she viewed
two angels in white sitting one at the head
and one at the feet where the body of Jesus had
been lying. And the angels said to her: “Woman,
why are you weeping? ” She said to the angels:
“They have taken my Lord away, and I do not know
where they have taken him.” After saying these things,
she turned and viewed Jesus standing, ....
Jesus said to her: “Stop clinging to me. For I have not yet
ascended to the Father. But be on your way to my brothers
and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and YOUR
Father and to my God and Your God.’ ” Christ had risen. John 20: 11-18.
poem by Terence George Craddock
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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It Is Finished
“It is finished” as Christ was done, were the words of God’s Own Son.
It was finished and some knew that Christ had died for me and you.
He was born the man Jesus Christ, for He was to be God’s Sacrifice.
Jesus was the name given Him as He’d save His people from their sin.
Christ was the name of God’s Son, as He was The Lord’s Anointed One.
Thinking they were done with Him, the people only added to their sin.
But Christ would not be denied, even though they pierced His side.
They had Him then sealed in a tomb, which only added to their doom.
In the ground as the scripture said, for three days amongst the dead.
But The Lord God was not done, for the grave could not hold His Son.
On the third day to much surprise, The Lord from the tomb would rise.
The stone of the tomb was rolled away, for He was not there to stay.
For the temple that He did raise, was His body to The Father’s praise.
And Jesus did just what He said, as He raised his body from the dead.
He was dead, but is now alive, and He is seated at His Father’s side.
This is the Gospel of Jesus Christ, that for us He became a sacrifice.
On the cross He bore the sins of all to redeem man from Adam’s fall.
Christ tasted death for you and me, so we could live through eternity.
Believe that for you Christ died and you my friend will be justified.
And confess your Lord is Jesus Christ and you will have Eternal Life.
(Copyright ©10/2004)
Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. John (Chapter 1)
In the beginning was the word,
And the word was with God,
And the Word was God,
And He was the beginning!
Every thing came to be through Him,
And without Him, nothing did not;
What came to be through Him was life,
And life was light of human race.
The light had shone amidst darkness,
And darkness hasn’t overcome it;
A man named John was sent by God
To bear testimony to light,
So that, through him, all may believe.
He wasn’t the light but came
To only testify to it;
True light enlightening persons
Was in the world which didn’t know him;
His own people didn’t accept him;
To those whoev’r accepted him,
The power to be a child of God
And to believe in his name was given.
All were born but of God alone,
And not through nature or by man;
The word became flesh, dwelt ’mongst us;
Like the Father’s, we saw his son’s
Glory too, full of grace and truth.
John testified to him and cried,
“This is He of whom I had said,
The one who comes soon after me,
But ranks ahead of me because
He had existed before me.
From his fullness, we all received
Grace after grace through Moses’ law,
While grace and truth came through Jesus;
None has ever seen God,
The son of God alone who was
At his father’s side, revealed him.
This is the testimony of St.John:
The Jews from Jerusalem sent Levites
And priests to John and asked him, “Who are you? ”
He admitted, “I’m not the Messiah.”
So, they asked him again, “Who are you then? ”
“Are you Elijah? ” and he said, “I’m not.”
“Are you the prophet then? ” He answered, “No.”
They queried him, “Just tell us who you are?
Let’s take an answer to those who sent us;
“What do you have to tell about yourself? ”
I am a voice in desert that’s crying,
“You make the way straight for the Lord.”
Some Pharisees then asked him, “Why baptize
If you are not the Messiah or else? ”
John answered them, “I baptize with water;
But there’s amongst you, one whom you know not,
And whom you neither recognize at all;
He is the one who will come after me;
His sandal-strap, I’m unfit to untie.
This happened in Bethany in Jordan.
On seeing Jesus the next day, John said,
“Behold the Lamb of God who washes sins away! ”
He is the one who’s expected to come
Soon after me but ranks ahead,
Because he had existed before me!
I didn’t know him but baptized with water.
So that he may be made to Israel known;
John testified more, “I saw the Spirit
Descend from the sky like a dove on him.
The one who had sent me to earth to preach
Told me, “On whomev’r you see the Spirit
Come down, remain, he is the one
Who will baptize with the Holy Spirit!
I’ve seen and testified that he’s the Son of God! ”
The next day, John was there again
With his two disciples
On seeing Jesus walk near-by, he said,
“Behold, the Lamb of God! ”
The two disciples heard whatev’r he spoke
And they followed Jesus.
Then Jesus turned and asked of them,
“What are you looking for? ”
They said to him, “Rabbi (Teacher) , where do you stay? ”
He said to them, “Come and you’ll see.”
So, they went and saw where he stayed,
And stayed with him that day.
It was four in the afternoon.
Andrew, (Simon Peter’s brother)
Was one of the two who‘d heard John
And too followed Jesus.
He found his brother Simon and told him,
“We’ve found the Messiah (the Anointed) ”.
He brought Simon to Jesus, who told him,
“You’re Simon, son of John.
You will be called Cephas, meaning Peter! ”
The next day, Jesus went to Galilee
And finding Philip, said, “You follow me! ”
Now Philip was from town of Bethsaida.
He found Nathanael and said to him,
“We’ve found the one about whom Moses wrote
In law and prophets also did like-wise:
Jesus, son of Joseph of Nazareth.”
Nathaniel asked, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?
So, Philip said to him, “Just come and see! ”
On seeing Nathanael come, Jesus said,
“An Israelite true, there’s no duplicate! ”
Nathaniel asked him, “How do you know me? ”
When Jesus answered him, “I saw you ’neath the fig-tree.”
Nathanael said, ” Rabbi, You’re Son of God, King of Israel! ”
But Jesus queried him, “Do you believe
Because I saw you under the fig-tree?
You’ll see much greater things than this.”
He said to him, “amen, I say to you,
You’ll see the sky open, God’s angels come
Ascending, descending on Son of Man! ”
Copyright by Dr John Celes 5-20-2007
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. Matthew (Chapter 15)
The Pharisees and scribes who came
From Jerusalem asked Jesus,
‘Your disciples break traditions
Of elders like washing their hands
Each time, before eating a meal? ’
But Jesus answered them and asked,
‘Why do you break God’s commandment
For tradition’s sake? For God said,
‘Honor your Father and Mother.
Whoev’r curses parents, shall die.’
‘You nullify the word of God;
So, Isaiah did prophesy
About you well, you hypocrites:
‘They honor me by their lips just
Their hearts are far away from me.’
‘They worship me with vanity
And teach as doctrines, mere precepts.’
He called the crowd and said to them,
‘Hear well and understand this thing:
What enters mouth does not defile
What mouth utters, only defiles.’
His disciples then said to Him,
‘The Pharisees were offended
When they had heard of what you said.’
Then, He said, ‘Each plant, that has not
Been planted by my Father then,
Will be uprooted definitely.’
Leave them alone, they are blind guides;
If one blind leads another then,
Both may happen to fall in pit.’
Then Peter asked Jesus, ‘O Lord,
Explain this parable to us.’
‘You stay without understanding!
All which enters the mouth enters
The stomach and is expelled then.
The things that come out of your mouth,
Come from your heart and they defile.
For, from your hearts come evil thoughts-
False witness, theft, adultery,
Unchastity, theft, blasphemy.
These are the things that one defile;
To eat with unwashed hands does not.’
Then Jesus went to Tyre, Sidon.
A Canaanite woman came there
And said, ‘O Lord, Son of David,
A demon has seized my daughter.
Have pity on her and on me.’
But He didn’t say a word to her.
His disciples said, ‘Send her out
For, she is troubling our Master.’
Then Jesus said, ‘I was just sent
For sheep of house of Israel lost.
The woman came again and said, ‘
Help me, O Lord, show some pity.’
When Jesus said, ‘It is not right
To throw children’s food o’er to dogs! ’
She said, ‘Lord, ev’n dogs can feed on
Scraps of food that from master’s table fall! ’
Then Jesus said, ‘You have great faith,
Let it happen as per your wish.’
Her daughter got healed at that hour.
Jesus then climbed the mountain-side
But even there, great crowds did come.
They placed the lame, blind, deformed, mute,
And many others at His feet.
Then Jesus cured each one of them.
The crowds were simply much amazed,
By miracles that Jesus did.
They glorified Israel’s Lord, God! ’
Then Jesus called His disciples
And said, ‘My heart pities the crowd.
They’ve been with us for three days now.
They had nothing to eat till date;
I don’t want them to leave hungry,
For, they could collapse on the way.’
His disciples asked, ‘Whence can we
Get enough bread for such large crowds,
In such a lonely place like this? ’
Then Jesus asked His disciples,
‘How many loaves do you’ve with you?
‘Seven, and a few fish, ’ they said.
He asked the crowd to be seated.
He took the bread and fish, gave thanks,
He broke and gave it to each one.
They ate and were much satisfied;
Remainder filled baskets seven.
Four thousand men had eaten well,
Not counting children and women.
And when He had dismissed the crowds,
By boat, He went to Magadan.
(6-3-2007)
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. Matthew (Chapter 16)
The Pharisees and Sadducees
To Jesus came, to test and asked,
‘Do show us a heavenly sign.’
He replied, ‘If evening sky’s red,
Tomorrow will be fair, you say.
If morning sky be red, today
Will be rather a stormy day.’
You know to judge the sky’s patterns,
Yet, cannot judge the signs of times.’
For a generation evil,
And unfaithful one, no sign will
Be given, except Jonah’s sign.
Then, He left them and went away..
On the other side of the sea,
They found that they had not brought bread.
And Jesus said, ‘Look out, beware
Of the leaven of Pharisees.’
His disciples thought, Jesus said
Because they had no bread with them.
Then Jesus said, ‘you faithless ones,
Why did you draw such conclusion? ’
‘Didn’t you remember the five loaves
That fed five thousand and more ones?
Didn’t you remember the seven,
That fed four thousand and more ones?
How many loaves remained also!
How is that you don’t comprehend?
The leaven of the bread had meant
The teachings of the Pharisees! ’
In Caesarea Philippi,
He asked, ‘what do people say I’m? ’
They said, ‘Some say, John, the Baptist,
Others, Jeremiah, prophets! ’
He then asked, ‘What do you say I’m? ’
Then Peter said, ‘You’re Messiah,
Son of the Living God, that’s One.’
And Jesus then said, ‘Blessed are you
O Simon Peter, Jonah’s son.
For, flesh and blood didn’t reveal this,
But my heavenly Father just.’
And so I say to you Peter,
‘Upon this rock, I’ll build my church..
The nether gates shall not prevail.
I’ll give the Kingdom’s keys to you.
Whatev’r you bind on earth shall be
Bound also in heaven likewise;
What you loosen on earth shall be
Loosened in heaven, similarly! ’
He ordered them not to reveal
That He was truly Messiah! ’
Then Jesus told his disciples
He must go to Jerusalem,
And suffer greatly from elders,
Chief priests and scribes, and be killed then,
And to become raised on third day!
Then Peter taking him aside
Said, ‘God forbid Lord, let nothing
Like that ever happen to you! ’
But Jesus said to Peter then,
‘Just get behind me, Satan, you,
You’re an obstacle to me too!
You are not thinking as God does.
You think as human beings do.’
Then Jesus said, ‘Whoever wants
To follow me must deny things
Take up his cross and come after.
For, he who saves his life shall lose,
Who loses life for my sake, lives! ’
‘What profits one to gain the world
But just forfeit his life on earth?
What can one’s life be exchanged for? ’
‘Amen I say, some of you here,
Will not taste death, until you see
The Son of Man come in glory,
By angels flanked one day, surely! ’
(6-3-2007)
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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I Believe In Jesus
Ran into mother mary down on line
Street in l.a.
She was preaching the gospel
She was singing how jesus saves
When a crowd of passing tourists
Looked to see what they could see
You know before they know it she had
Them all down on their knees
I believe in jesus you know I know him
Oh so well
And Im going to heaven by and by
cause I already been through hell
I believe in jesus, in jesus, in jesus
I believe in jesus, in jesus
So onward christian soldiers still
Marching as to war
With the cross of jesus just going on before
Now jesus was a little lamb, his fleece
Was white as snow
And every where that jesus went
This lamb is sure to go
Well I believe in jesus you know I know him
Oh so well
And Im going to heaven by and by
cause I saved my soul from going to hell
I believe in jesus, in jesus, in jesus
I believe in jesus, in jesus
Look at the sheep cause theyre
Running fast
They wanna make it through the gates
At last
So onward christian soldiers still
Marching as to war
With the cross of jesus just going on before
I believe in jesus, in jesus
I believe in jesus, in jesus.....
song performed by by Donna Summer
Submitted by Lucian Velea
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. John (Chapter 6)
When Jesus went across the Sea
Of Galilee, a crowd followed;
They saw His miracles on sick;
He ascended the mountain-slope
And sat down with His disciples;
The Feast of Passover was near.
Then Jesus saw a large crowd come;
He asked Philip, ‘Where to buy food? ’
He asked this just to test Philip.
He knew what He’as going to do.
Then Philip replied, ‘Two hundred
Days’ wages worth food wouldn’t suffice.’
Andrew told Jesus, ‘There’s a boy
With barley loaves five and fish two.
It wouldn’t do well for such a crowd.’
Then Jesus told the crowd to rest.
Five thousand people sat on grass.
Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks
And had it shared along with fish.
When all had eaten indeed well,
Jesus told, ‘Gather all fragments.’
It was twelve wicker basketsful.
When people saw the miracle,
They accepted Jesus, Prophet-
The one who had come to the world!
They wanted to make Him the king.
So, Jesus withdrew to mountain.
When evening came, they went by boat,
Across the sea to Capernaum.
While traveling, it turned quite dark;
The sea was rough with fierce a wind.
When they had gone three miles off-shore,
They saw Jesus come walk on sea
Towards the boat, and grew afraid.
But Jesus said, ‘It’s I, Don’t fear! ’
They thought Jesus would come aboard;
But suddenly, the boat reached shore!
They realized the next day that
The disciples had come by boat
But Jesus did not come by same!
From Tiberias, other boats came.
As Jesus had not arrived still,
The crowd by boats reached Capernaum.
They went in search of Jesus there.
They found Him come across the sea;
They asked, ‘Rabbi, How did you come? ’
Then Jesus said, ‘Amen, I say;
You searched for me, not for my signs,
But due to being filled by loaves.’
‘Don’t work for food that perishes;
But that which gives eternity! ’
‘The Son of Man can give such food;
On Him was set, (God) father’s seal!
They asked Him how to work for God.
Then Jesus said, ‘This is God’s work,
That you believe in one He sent.’
They asked Him, ‘What sign can you give
That we may see and believe you? ’
Our ancestors were fed manna.
’Tis written, ‘He gave bread from sky! ’
So, Jesus said, ‘Amen, amen,
It wasn’t Moses then who gave bread;
My father gives heavenly bread!
God’s divine bread gives you new life.’
They asked, ‘Could you give bread always? ’
Then Jesus said, ‘I’m bread of life.’
‘One, seeking me shall hunger not;
He who believes in me shan’t thirst.’
‘Though you see me, you don’t believe;
All things, my Father gives, I get;
I won’t reject ones who seek me.
I came from heaven, not on own,
But by the will of one who sent.
It is His will that I lose naught;
And that I raise it on last day.’
The Jews murmured when He told thus:
‘I’m the bread that heaven sent.’
They asked, ’ Is not He, Joseph’s son?
Don’t we his mother, father know?
How come he says, ‘I’m heaven’s bread! ? ’
Then Jesus told, ‘Stop murmuring! ’
No one can come to me unless
My Father draws him up above;
I will raise him up on last day.’
’Tis written in the prophets thus:
‘They shall be taught by God Himself.’
And all who heed and learn from Him,
Will come to me like-wise truly.’
‘Amen, I say to you, Amen:
‘Whoever believes sure has eternal life.
‘Jesus said, ‘I’m the bread of life.’
‘Though ancestors ate manna, still,
They died in desert ground, some ill! ’
‘This is the heav’nly bread from God
He who eats it lives forever sans death;
I am that living bread divine;
Who eats this bread will live forev’r
The bread I’ll give is my own flesh.’
The Jews quarreled amongst themselves,
‘How can this man give flesh to eat? ’
So, Jesus said, ‘Amen to you;
Amen, unless you eat the flesh
And drink the blood of Son of man,
You do not have within you life! ’
‘Who eats my flesh and drinks my blood
Has life eternal- will be raised.
My flesh and blood are true food / drink;
Whoev’r does so, remains in me;
He will have life because of me;
Whoever eats this bread, ev’r lives! ’
These things were taught by Jesus while
In synagogue in Capernaum.
His own disciples seemed to tell,
‘This is quite hard; who can accept?
Then Jesus who’d their murmur heard
Queried, ‘Did all I said shock you? ’
‘What if you see the Son of Man
Ascend to where He was before? ’
‘For flesh is of no avail then;
Spirit alone gives live forev’r
My words are spirit and your life.
But there are some who don’t believe.’
For, Jesus knew from beginning
Ones who believe; ones who betray.
So Jesus said, ‘No one can come
To me unless my Father grants.’
Because of this some disciples
Returned to former ways of life,
Without accompanying Him.
Then Jesus asked the Twelve and said,
‘Do you intend to also leave? ’
Then Peter answered Him, ‘Master,
‘Master, to who shall we all go? ’
‘You have words of Eternal Life!
We do believe and are convinced,
You are the Holy One of God! ’
Jesus asked, ‘Didn’t I choose you Twelve,
Yet, one of you is sure devil! ’
Thus, Jesus referred to Judas,
The son of Simon Iscariot,
Who would be one to Him betray!
(5-22-2007)
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Sonnet: The Name of Jesus…
The name of Jesus gives us grace anew;
The name of Jesus cures minds of evils;
The name of Jesus portrays divine view;
The name of Jesus drives away devils.
The name of Jesus works great miracles;
The name of Jesus brings solace to all;
The name of Jesus flashes parables;
The name of Jesus makes a clarion call!
The name of Jesus wards off dangers great;
The name of Jesus acts like holy knives!
The name of Jesus changes sad a fate;
The name of Jesus saves all sinners’ lives.
The name of Jesus will convert a soul;
The name of Jesus leads souls to God’s goal!
Copyright by Dr John Celes 7-5-2006
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Good Friday
The Crucifixion- Jesus Spoke Seven Times
The day was Friday and time: Nine O’clock:
To Golgotha, the ‘Place of Skull’, they came;
And on the cross, they wrote His glorious name:
I N R I: in Latin, Greek, Hebrew-
‘Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews’
And Jesus spoke for the very first time:
‘Father, forgive them for they do not know
What they are doing.” Lk 23: 34
They tore His garments and auctioned them Mt 27: 25
They mocked at Jesus, and spat on his face; Mt 27: 39
The thieves spoke angrily to him but one
Believed that Jesus was truly a king.
And Jesus spoke for the second time thus:
“Truly, I say to you, today,
You will be with me in Paradise.” Lk 23: 43
When Jesus spoke the third time, He told His mother,
“Woman, this is your son.”
And to the disciple, He said,
‘This is your mother.” Jn 19: 26-27
The robbers two, were crucified with Him;
One to His left and other, to His right;
At noon-time, darkness fell: the land turned dim;
Till three O’clock, there was not much of light;
When Jesus spoke for the fourth time aloud:
‘Eli, Eli, lema sabackthani! ’ which meant:
‘My God, My God, Why have You forsaken me? ’
When Jesus spoke for the fifth time, He said,
“I thirst, ” Jn 19: 30 and they offered a sponge with vinegar!
And the sixth time when Jesus spoke:
‘It is finished; and ‘it is accomplished’ Jn 19: 28
And when He spoke for the seventh time
It was the last and Jesus cried aloud:
“Father, into your hands, I commend my spirit” Lk23: 46
A soldier pierced the side of Jesus when,
Blood and water gushed forth from the wound!
The curtain of the Temple was torn apart
And there came upon the land, an earthquake. Mt 27: 51-54
Jesus was taken off the cross and buried. Mk 15: 46
Copyright by Dr John Celes 3-21-2008
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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Bible in Poetry: Gospel of St. Mark (Chapter 11)
And when they neared Jerusalem,
Bethphage, Bethany (Mount Olives) ,
He sent disciples two and told,
“Go to the village, opposite you,
On entering it, you’ll find a colt,
Tethered, on which no one ev’r sat.
Untie and bring it here. If asked,
“Why do you do this? ” say, “The Master needs.
He’ll send it back soon afterwards.”
They found the colt as Jesus said.
They answered queries as He’d told.
They brought the colt, their cloaks on it.
Some people spread their cloaks en way.
Some spread cut leafy-branches too.
Then Jesus sat and rode on it.
Some went ahead. Some followed Him,
And said, “Hosanna in Highest!
Blest is He who comes in God’s name.
And blessed be David’s kingdom!
Our father that’s to come yet; hosanna!
When Jesus reached Jerusalem,
’Twas late. He went to Bethany.
Next day, He felt very hungry;
He saw a leafy fig-tree far;
He went to look for figs on it:
It had just leaves; it wasn’t fig-time!
“May none eat fruits from you, ” He said.
His disciples didn’t hear these words.
In Jerusalem’s temple’s place,
He drove out those who bought and sold;
He pushed down tables of money-changers,
And pulled down seats of Dove-sellers;
He disallowed to carry things and said,
“Isn’t it writ: My house is just for prayer?
You have made it a den of thieves.”
When scribes, chief priests then heard of it,
They sought a way to put Him soon to death.
They feared Him yet, as crowds loved Him.
When evening came, they left the gates;
By dawn, the fig-tree had withered!
And Peter said, “Rabbi, that tree
You cursed has withered, entirely! ”
Jesus replied, “Have faith in God.”
“Amen, if one tells this mountain
Be lifted up, be thrown in sea,
Without a doubt, it shall be done.”
All that you ask in prayer, just believe.
Then, you’ll receive it and it shall be yours.
Before you pray, forgive others their faults;
Your Heav’nly Father will forgive your sins.
They came back to the Temple’s place,
The scribes, chief priests approached Him, asked,
“By whose authority, you do these things? ”
And Jesus smiled, “answer mine too:
“Was John’s baptism, by heaven or men? ”
They discussed ’mongst themselves and said,
“If say we, of heavenly origin,
He’ll ask, ‘Don’t you believe in him? ”
“And if we say of human origin! ”
They feared the crowd who knew John as prophet.
They said to Jesus, “We don’t know.”
“Neither shall I tell, ” said Jesus.
Copyright by Dr John Celes 5-20-2007
poem by John Celes
Submitted by Poetry Lover
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