Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Between Samaria and Galilee


On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, they called out, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" When he saw them, he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were made clean. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. He prostrated himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus asked, "Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" Then he said to him, "Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well." Luke 17:11-19 

Between Samaria and Galilee

The suffering and pain were less
than the shame and exclusion
sent away from all that we know
to live together in order to die.

This diseased body still cries
still aches for love and compassion
this body is still completely human
though wholly broken and rejected.

The outcasts of this world
huddled together for our sins
sick and shattered still cling to hope
that the road beside will still surprise us.

Thousands pass by and turn away
hundreds look and are horrified
the braver ones stare in wonder
what can they do for a sickness so vile?

One voice in our wilderness
heard our cry for help and healing
miracles abounding we returned home
forgetting to be grateful for our freedom.

On the road between Samaria and Galilee
one remembered all that God had done
one alone spoke thanksgiving and praise
all were healed but one was made whole.

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