SURROUNDINGS

The Christ had come -
And shepherds, at the angel’s urging,
Rushed to encircle Him
With their acclamation.

Their Lord and Friend had come -
And the re-enlivened family
Surrounded Him
With love, service, and nard.

But His enemies
Crowded Him, hemmed Him, bound Him -
His grace
Allowed Him to be led.

What a circle of sadness
Gathered to convey
The body of the Lord Jesus
To the tomb.

A ring of joy
As the Risen One
Appeared among His own
Enjoying fresh relationships.

From their surroundings
The Lord ascended
To the place of glory -
Making a place for them.

“In the midst of the throne
And of the four living creatures
And in the midst of the elders”
John saw “A Lamb standing…”