“Jesus was a poet.” Those were the first words Bob greeted me with as he came down from upstairs. Not “Good morning” or “Did you sleep well?” but “Jesus was a poet.” I replied, “And don’t you know it.” It may seem like an odd way to start the day, especially before my first cup of coffee, but it was a much-needed gift for me. I had been struggling with what exactly to share with you all.
According to poemanalysis.com, “A poem is a piece of writing, usually using some rhyme scheme or metrical pattern, that expresses a writer’s feelings (or the feelings of a persona). They can tell stories, record memories, express desire, and share information. The best poems are those that tap into the universality of human experience…”
While Jesus may not have written poems, his shared stories and messages are often poetic. So, while waiting for that first cup of blessed coffee to brew, Bob and I discussed Jesus’ poem, The Beatitudes.
In those eight verses, Jesus reveals how our lives, even when we feel hopeless, can be a blessing if we act with love. In his “You Have Heard It Said” poem, he clarifies The Beatitudes: “You have heard it said, but I tell you… don’t hurt others with your words or actions. Don’t view others as objects to manipulate. Don’t seek retaliation; instead, forgive others for their mistakes. We all need compassion and forgiveness. We all need love, even for those we believe do not deserve it.
This theme is at the heart of Jesus’ poem, especially as I navigate the words and actions of those around me. Beatitudes challenge us to live a life of love, regardless of the circumstances in the world. They encourage us to transform ourselves from within, even when we can’t control our external environment or feel hopeless.
During the 2020 election, I voiced my disapproval of a particular candidate. One of my sons-in-law looked at me and said, “Shonda, you of all people (likely because of my role as a clergy) should still love them.” It was frustrating but true; I didn’t need to vote for that person, but I still needed to love them. That was a struggle then, and it continues to be a challenge today.
Jesus the Poet and Jesus the Savior both wanted us to know that, as difficult as it may be, we need to embody a love that extends beyond mere good feelings for family and friends—an all-encompassing love. In doing so, we strive to be what God created each of us to be: an expression of God’s love for all creation. That doesn’t mean we are complicit in accepting acts of injustice. Quite the contrary, as with our children, often the most loving thing we can do is help them be aware of how unloving and hurtful their words and actions are. So, in this time, especially in this time, cultivate a deep sense of compassion and love, and allow it to drive your actions, transforming your life and those around you.
May the love of God shine through you now and always,
Rev. Shonda Deranleau
Tri-Conference Resource Deacon