The crowd, big, unwavering for a time,
swept up in adoration, praise, and joy,
not really knowing what was drawing them,
but nonetheless giving in to that voice.

In one direction, was how they began,
but then it changed, like all shifty things do,
with smoke and mirrors and numerous tricks,
yet still losing wit—a tangled up mess.

The ruler we’re told, unnerved at their choice,
a frustrating thing, as well as unheard,
it is what it is, and how it will be,
people are who they are, until they’re free.

Judging this, judging that, unable to see
by the light in “their” way. It’s only one Way,
The truth pushing through, will not be denied,
faithful, steady, honor instead of praise.

Jesus, from beginning to end, having been stripped, beaten, taunted and jeered, no finger pointed or person damned, nor any call for revenge. Lord, may your example be the one we hold above all.