The Journey

Toward the mountain I’m walking

Through the dew in the cool of the morning

The breeze kisses my cheek

The air smells so sweet

As I begin my journey

Butterflies stir in my stomach

With every fresh step that I take

For I know when I reach

The steep mountain’s peak

I’ll have to act on my faith

I try not to think too much

Just focus on the beauty around me

But as I drawn near

So does my fear

As I question the quest that’s before me

With me is all I deem precious

In my hand is the joy of my life

You have called me to give

I don’t know if he’ll live

I’ll have to trust You to provide

I feel the heat of the sun now

My forehead glimmers with sweat

As its intensity grows

The more my heart knows

I’m overwhelmed in my distress

At last we’ve reached the top

It’s time, my heart starts to race

The altar’s prepared

The sacrifice standing right there

With a beautiful smile on his face

His innocent eyes lock with mine

I melt as without a spine

I know what must be done

So I walk toward my son

And take his hand in mine

Slowly to the altar I lead him

Instruct him to sit down and lie

Horror covers his face

His mouth hangs agape

He stutters, “Daddy, but why?”

“Be still,” is all I can whisper

I reach for the knife in my belt

The handle’s on fire

Was I liar

Believing all would be well?

The blade is above my head raised

“Lord!” I scream as if crazed

But before the knife lands

A voice stills my hand

And behold…

Just feet away…

I see the ram

(July 20, 2010)