Drinking the Cup, and All of It

Matthew 20:22
 
“Can you drink the cup?”
The challenge from the Master
Given Sons of Thunder
His Passion close at hand.
Quickly they said “yes”
With no real sense of wonder
At the mix of living
To later understand.
They had known real joy
While seated at His table
His were words of hope
And brotherhood so rare.
Still most worldly folk
Ignored their every pleading
Hinting at the bitter dregs
Each life would come to share.
His a night alone
Then cruelly to a dying.
Theirs long years abroad
And facing tiresome doubt.
Martyrs’ ends they braved
Still Heaven’s ethic crying
Mixing woe and joy
(The things this life’s about.)
Could they take the cup
And lift it all for viewing
Chalice of their years
Laid, trusting, out for friends?
Could they drink it all
The God-sent blend renewing
Christ still in their midst
And thankful til their ends.


 
Note: I was constrained to write this after finishing a book by Henri Nouwen entitled “Can You Drink the Cup?” published in 1996, the year of his death. Excellent account of taking, lifting and drinking the Cup.