Putting Faces with Names~

As I read the passages tonight, I see myself in many faces, hear myself answering to their names:

-I am Mary Magdalene, whoring myself out for a pittance, not realizing the inheritance I already possess.

-I am Saul, with my misguided, murderous intent—blinded while traveling down a road destined for destruction.

-I am Samson, weakened by human (and misplaced) love—made frail at the hands of the one I (foolishly) trusted the most.

-I am Pilot, my cowardice is costly, its ripple effect I have only begun to discern.

-I am Peter. I run when I should walk—speak when I shouldn’t talk---my fits of passion are not accepted kindly, as peace and patience are words of the day.

-I am Judas Iscariot, trusted steward—only to turn and betray—greed getting the better of me—I now hang—my head in shame—my heart in sorrow—my body among the twisted branches.

-I am Barrabas, unworthy recipient of this second chance, escorted from my prison-- I stagger away from the gallows…free.

-I am Cain, my jealousy has killed many things…I walk alone in exile, the ground beneath me lies barren and fallow.

-I am David, not yet the king… small, lowly shepherd—I long to dance in the streets and sing—golden harps and waving arms.

-I am Delilah, sapping the strength of those I claim to love— I cut with words, with selfishness, with pride. they are weakened—and I am to blame.

-I am Absalom, overtaken with righteous anger—my sisters have been dishonored.

-I am Esau, my eyes short-sighted—my greedy, gluttonous mind bargains away my blessings.

-I am Jezebel, my idolatry has ripped me apart limb from limb—the hounds of heaven tearing at my amethyst cloak.

-I am Tamar, I have been dishonored—I have been broken and used. I am bitter—angry at injustice. I am seething—shamed—and saddened by what did not have to be—by this world that makes no sense.

-I am still Mary Magdalene…but now I have grown my hair---I have broken an alabaster box. I have knelt low, and I have raised high—my eyes—my song—my soul. I have been washing feet—been washing—been washed—clean.

~I am loved, I don't know why~