A long day, a long night,
But Christ saw no need to fight!

So many words, sharp and urging,
He only stood there with great love emerging!

Over and over, they tried to harass,
Whirling darts of cold hard brass!

“Thou sayest it”, He once replied,
To a question designed to reveal kingly pride.

His whole bearing gave evidence of total innocence,
But the enemy was enraged by His consistent and quiet diligence.

“Show us a sign they loudly demanded,
But having taken upon Himself man’s nature,
He would not respond to what they commanded.

For in all of this, He was showing us the Way,
As in His earthly life He had lived day by day!

The court room and then the cross which lay just ahead,
the lamb led to the slaughter, openeth not His mouth;
But stood ready through His death and resurrection, the good news to spread!

Today for you and me another court room may await,
One where the tests will reveal whether we have chosen the pathway called straight!

Oppressed and afflicted for you and for me,
His coming is so soon, what will your choice be?

AMEM

In Honor of Ruth V. Combes-Duson-Phillips
By Jesus and Joyce Ann Combes
4/11/2025