The tax collector

After Matthew 9:9-13

He sits, the scroll in front,

making his marks, adjusting

as necessary and anticipated,

as each one in the line comes

forward, each ready to argue

and ultimately be extorted,

as necessary and anticipated,

for this is how it is done

under a rule of iron. He feels

and disregards the hot wind

of their hatred, until the one

who has nothing but his word

stands before him, face masked

by the sun behind him. A hand

is extended; a voice says follow

me, and he stands from his scroll

and follows, not knowing

how to face love.

Photograph via Free Bible Images.