He said "touch me and see." To a doubting boy, He gave His flesh, and simply said "put out your hand - touch, and see." What words are these that reach a doubting man's deepest need? What words are these that command our every breath? Speak life to what was death. Form man from dust, all that is seen created by the lyrics flowing from His lips.
Words that set the leper free, from both disease and social scorn. "I will, be clean" He said, and reached His hand to touch the untouchable reject. Words that make a mute man talk, a blind man see, a lame man walk, a demon flee. And to a little girl, who sleeps in death, He speaks just like she's His sweet child: "Little girl, i say to you, arise." Such tender words restore her life. To the lady satan bound for 18 long years, He says: "Woman, you are freed.." His words meet people in their needs.
What words are these that speak hope to a grieving Mother; her child hanging on a tree: "Woman, behold your Son!" As His body was torn, He thinks not of Himself, but His Mother's loss instead. He cries "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do", such mercy flows to those who nailed Him to His death. And to a common thief He says: "Today, you will be with me in Paradise." All this, whilst dying in agony on a cross, forsaken by His Father, baring the weight of sin and shame. Who else speaks like this? And then 3 final words that rip through every darkened night: "It is finished." Complete. Done. Forever more. He stripped the mocker of his game and conquered death; raised back to life He will always reign.
Such words as these that speak the truth, and never fear to challenge man: "If your eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away."....."If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to Him the other also."...."Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."...."As you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.".... "Forgive your brother from your heart.".... "Let He who is without sin, cast the first stone.".... and to that woman, who knew her sin "neither do i condemn you, go and from now on sin no more."
What words are these that claim deity: "Before Abraham was born, I AM." That prove He was a King, yet still He bowed in humble submission: "Not My will, but Yours be done." So full of love and rich with heart: "How often would i have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you would not." He says it as it is.
Words that rebuke winds and calm the sea: "Peace: Be still." That comfort man in all His fear: "It is I, do not be afraid.".... "Take heart, I have overcome the World." And promise "nothing will be impossible" with so much as a grain of faith. Words that impart hope to the most parched and shrivelled soul: "If anyone thirts, let him come to me and drink.".... and speak of love that is so deep: "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends."
And still He called Judas His "friend." The man betrayed Him. It does not change what Jesus said. And when accused, He spoke not a word in His own defence.
So, words are fickle? Half-pretense? Maybe ours, but no, not His. I am in love with His. They are more beautiful than any others i've heard upon this Earth. Though i forget with ease, and disobey too much, underneath it all i know such words as these i can't ignore. They're mercy to my burdened heart and peace that cuts through confused thought. Such words as these make me cry: 'Speak Lord, into my soul.... Your words alone are what i seek....You are the word become flesh.... The sum of all Your words is You: This God-man, this beauty, this servant-King.'
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