One Cup, One Covenant
Tis but a cup you say…
Perhaps a glass or even a mug ?
A goblet, tumbler, or tankard ?
Stein, Middy, Jug, or schooner ?
A fine chalice or elegant snifter ?
Nay, none of these define
For in this case, it’s only a simple cup
A vessel, empty and then filled
Held fast in a room of men
One which thanks was given over
Its contents, but a simple wine
No complexity, just a subtlety
One which would be revealed much later
Its covenant sacred and eternal
Anchored in blood, in bond, and in fellowship
That fateful day when men gathered
Devout, eager, and willing men
Certainly none aware of betrayal
None but two
One who carried the shame
While each man drank and shared
And forever bound their futures
There was meaning beneath it all
Yet unseen or unspoken just then
Being taught their last lesson
For his farewell was unknown
To not one but two
The other one
The one offering eternal life
Extended his hand to the other
Still blinded by silver
And though the redeemer could see
He still offered his love
Unconditionally
No, I don’t write Christian poetry, it’s not my thing – this piece is something I offer at face value and willingly give the reader full control over making it mean what the want it to mean. I know the story and it does behoove itself to a powerful blend of words and imagery.
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Well penned of a familiar circumstance and perhaps a thought for simple objects that become something else due to the circumstances around them. Interesting thoughts in the play of life. A story nicely told with evocative imagery and as you say, many meanings for the reader to interpret. Great work Ralph.
I was surprised and pleased to see this RJ. From my reading of those events I could not have said it better. Such a shame too for how it usually is in our consciences, the traitor could not enjoy his reward even for a little while.
I think you told it beautifully.
OK – I’d love to hear why you are surprised Jackie (am I too transparent?) Ha ha ha
Thanks for reading and I appreciate your comments
Very clever way to present a familiar event and leave it to the reader to interpret. Well done, Ralph.
A great take on the story of the Last Supper. Very intelligent poetry. Well done, Ralph.
Sometimes it’s the simplest things that leave a life altering experience for so many. In this case a simple cup filled with wine that would act as as redeeming covenant for those who drunk of it then and partake of it to this day.Very well articulated Ralph.
So very nicely done, RJ. You brought out not only the deep meaning, but also the beauty of this tragic event. Well done, and well said! Thank you.