We sit with them

After Matthew 9:9-13

We sit with the dark

to bring the light

we sit with the grief

to bring the mercy

we sit with the friendless

to bring encouragement

we sit with the sinner

to witness the salvation

we sit with the saved

to bring the redemption

we sit with the ignorant

to bring the wisdom

And they with us

for the same reasons.

Photograph by Christine Vincent via Public Domain Pictures. Used with permission.

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.

Two walls

After Matthew 9:9-13

Two walls: one clean,

one not; one white,

one with dirt, streaks.

One sturdy, intact;

one crumbling.

The mason considers

both, considers

which to leave alone,

which to touch and heal.

Photograph by Lynn Greyling via Public Domain Pictures. Used with permission.