And why did he die?

It is Ash Wednesday, and as this is a time for repenting sins rather than committing them, I won't lie and say I have written this poem especially for the occasion. In between teaching, marking and unsuccessful trips to the immigration office, I haven't had a lot of time this week. However, in true Blue Peter style "here is one I made earlier" and today seemed like an appropriate moment to share this peom, and its accompanying picture.

And why did he die?

As he kneels in fervent prayer

To a God he knows as Abba

A prayer that asks for an easier road

But knows nothing hurts like love

With a cry of deepest anguish

What depths of suffering humanity

And what did he do? And why did he die?

As the lash cuts deep in flesh

And his heart is torn apart

The pain of divided communities

And of those who society excludes

With a cry of searing pain

What deep scars mark his soul

And what did he do? And why did he die?

As he wears his thorny crown

And calls for a different authority

A fight fought without weapons

As he stands against oppression

With a cry of hidden glory

What painful kingship this

And what did he do? And why did he die?

As he dares to lift this burden

And offer the gift of freedom

The release from violent force

And the possibility of life to the full

With a cry of torturous effort

What heavy burdens borne

And what did he do? And why did he die?

As his arms stretch wide in love

To live love and forgiveness to the end

A gesture of poverty and weakness

But with the hidden strength of God

With a cry of final abandonment

What vulnerability of love

And what did he do? And why did he die?

I wish you all a reflective and fruitful season of lent.