By Tess Baumberger
Scripture says the disciples
locked themselves in upper rooms,
quarantining against the violence outside.
Grieving, anxious, angry, scared.
Then, it says, hope came through
those barricaded doors.
It greeted them and they were
astonished, disbelieving.
How could it be true?
How could what seemed dead
still breathe and move,
speak and inspire?
It says slowly they believed,
asked questions, listened.
Gradually they gained courage
until one day flames appeared
over each previously unwilling head.
Then they threw open the doors
and strode out onto the balconies.
They spoke in words every person
from every nation could understand.
“Hope.” They said. “Love. Justice.”
The crowds bewildered.
“Hope.” “Life.” “Love.” Justice.”
The crowds stilled and breathed.
Then the disciples came down
from their former frightened haven.
They became prophets and healers.
They moved among the people.