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…”