These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

Today's NaPoWriMo Poem: "Emmaus"

The seven miles back down they walked to town
were heaviness for heart and feet.
How could they hope or life be turned around?
With Master gone they knew defeat.

A stranger with his kindly worded thoughts
began to walk with these sad souls.
His gentle manner soothed and lessons taught,
in serving bread He made them whole.

With chastisement called them, “slowish fools,
“who did not learn the prophets’ words.”
How can it be that this is good, not cruel?
Can harshness lead to wisdom that’s heard?

Fair Jesus You are ever all that’s kind,
but sometimes I don’t understand.
You walk with friends in love, but keep them blind,
You leave them when they see as planned.

You feed them of your living manna bread,
but You slip away when they need You close.
You’re teaching trust, that they’ll be calmly led.
The patient child is one, who knows.

by Jay O'Toole
on April 23rd, 2019