In the Vineyard's Shade: A Poem #1068

In the Vineyard's Shade: A Poem In ancient paths, where olive branches sway, A tale unfolds beneath the sun's stern gaze. Two sons, two hearts, the vineyard calls away, A father's plea within the morning's haze. The first, in haste, denies the earnest call, Yet stirs his heart as twilight paints the sky. Repentant steps, towards the vines, he falls— A changed man beneath the starlit eye. The second nods, with promises so sweet, Yet trails remain untouched by willing hands. Deceit's soft robe, a path of fallen wheat, Where words fly free, and yet no action stands. Upon this stage, the lowly ones draw near, Tax-gatherers, harlots, in their shame. Yet, in their eyes, the spark of change appears, Embraced by grace, they rise above their blame. "Verily," He speaks, a voice so mild, "The last shall be the first to see the dawn. For hearts that break, and spirits reconciled, Shall walk the paths where angels have been drawn." O leaders clad in righteousness and pride, Your robes of law, your phylacteries wide, He warns you now, as humbly He derides, The scorned shall pass where you, perhaps, may bide. Thus speaks the Christ, with parables so clear, Of vines and sons and work that calls us all. His words, like seeds, in open hearts appear, And grow to break the hardest, proudest wall. Reflect, O soul, on deeds and faith professed, Are you the son who toils within the field? Or do you speak, and yet your heart's at rest, Unmoved by love, by grace yet unsealed? In shadows of the vineyard's twisted vines, A whisper calls, a gentle, firm decree— "The kingdom's gates swing wide, the light divines Those true of heart, the humble, they shall see." Written by Steven G. Lee (April 28, 2024)