Mark 15:6-20

This poem is intended as a sequel to https://metabolizinggodsword.com/2023/07/31/the-priest-and-the-leper/. It is rooted in the law code concerning leprosy in Leviticus 13. This is the way I believe Mark intended these two stories to be understood.

All alone darkness entwined soon to be crucified
Beaten and bruised I am covered with sores
Unclean my life will end as I do die
Unclean as leprosy behind these doors

The guards they drag me out into the light
Set up exposed within this crowded square
One man like me he stands near by my side
Two men helpless as doves caught in a snare

The judge stands up “Who lives? Who dies?”
The insurrectionist he points his hand at me
“Or him, your King Jesus whom you defy”
The priests and crowd cry out “release Barabbas”

“What of this man your King he’s innocent”
The crowd they raise their voice! “Crucify him!”
He’s led away his death now imminent
The pure white dove sinless and now condemned

They wrap him in a scarlet robe and mock
As cedar wood’s prepared to bind him on
Laughing they beat him with a hyssop stalk
Spittal is mixed with blood his face upon

I fly released from death I am set free
The gentle dove his blood is thick on me