Those of the Broken Cross

By John Blase | March 18, 2015 |

He raised his hand to make

the sign of the cross

but after touching his forehead

his hand fell limp.

No breastbone, no left shoulder then right.

He was too weak.

He died later that day.

This had a profound effect upon

the young priest,

this passing of his father

in weakness.

At first it was awkward.

It felt unfinished, the hand wanted more.

But as time passed, which it always does,

the movement gained ease

by both priest and people.

They were referred to by others as

“those of the broken cross”

– a phrase of derision.

But for them it became

formative, an outward sign

of their inner dependence.

Beth Impson on March 18, 2015 at 1:01 pm

So beautiful it hurts.

- thebeautifuldue on March 19, 2015 at 12:43 am
  
  Thank you, Beth.
  
mike graves on March 18, 2015 at 1:24 pm

good to hear your voice,God bless yall

- thebeautifuldue on March 19, 2015 at 12:45 am
  
  Mike, thanks!
  
Gwen Acres on March 18, 2015 at 8:11 pm

what we all need…

- thebeautifuldue on March 19, 2015 at 12:45 am
  
  Hi, Gwen. Yes we do.
  
pastordt on March 18, 2015 at 11:15 pm

been missin’ you – thanks for showing up again.

- thebeautifuldue on March 19, 2015 at 12:46 am
  
  Thanks, Diana. I’ve just been a little quiet…
  
patriciaspreng on March 18, 2015 at 11:58 pm

I’ve never, ever looked at it that way before. You do have a way, John. As always, thank you.

- thebeautifuldue on March 19, 2015 at 12:47 am
  
  Hi, Pat. The image came in a dream…
  
Sallie on March 19, 2015 at 12:55 pm

This really is deeply beautiful. Thank you, John.

Live & Love Organics on March 19, 2015 at 10:18 pm

His perfect grace shows up in weakness….
powerful and visceral
Thank you

Sandra Heska King on March 20, 2015 at 12:35 am

What Beth said.