Lazarus (i)

At the sound of His voice, even death scatters.

The stench fades as the stone rolls aside

and the fragrance of Mercy fills the air.

The dead man stumbles out of the tomb’s darkness

finding himself in the light of life.

Captive, do not look behind you.

Look only at the One who has called your name.

Freedom grips your hand

as life surges forth in your newly-beating heart.

It is Love who calls you out

and brings you forth.

Voices stammer in awe of Him:

“Can it be?  This man—Joseph’s son?”

Others cry aloud: 

“He is the Chosen One!”

His the Victory:

death’s dark valley laid bare.

The final Word resounding

in the face of sin’s tired grip:

“Let him go.”