The-Road-Traveled

The Road Traveled

by Judith Shields Regini

Easter 2023

The palms swayed gently in the breeze as townsfolk gathered near.

They sang of heaven, sang of hope. They waited now, in fear.

A rider entered on a mule so very tired and worn.

His mother stood nearby in tears, starting now to mourn.

The crowd sang loud hallelujahs, for Mary’s brave young man.

They honored him, held palm leaves high, the final days began.

He slowly passed in front of them. His face was bright with love.

These loving people grateful for God’s gift from up above.

As He traveled down the road, disciples stood nearby.

They turned to hide their faces so He wouldn’t see them cry.

Now they joined the people as they all began to sing

Praises to the Father and the Son – Heaven’s blessed King.

All too soon they made Him walk toward the dreaded place

Where He would end His life on earth – forever cloaked in grace.

Nails were driven in his hands and feet upon that cross.

They could never understand how grievous was this loss.

Raised on high, upon that hill, He bowed and prayed his last.

While they watched, He closed His eyes and then our Savior passed.

He went to see his Father that day, according to God’s plan,

That started when God sent Him here to become a man.

They placed him in a cold, cold cave and closed it with a stone.

Now disciples and their friends – were suddenly alone.

But three days hence, as Sunday dawned, disciples filled with gloom,

Would meet a man who joined them in the quiet upper room.

He joined them in that upper room. He blessed and broke the bread.

Then they recognized the Lord – no longer filled with dread.

As they gathered in one place near Jerusalem

They rejoiced that Jesus lives – it was truly Him!

Jesus Christ is Risen today! Alleluia!