Being Held

For the last 26 years, I’ve taught Hebrew Scriptures at Memphis Theological Seminary. I trade off with The Prophets, Wisdom Lit., The Pentateuch, Hebrew and Psalms depending on what is needed. Every summer I have been amazed, surprised, humbled and grateful.

This summer, a wonderful thing happened. A young man started writing and hasn’t stopped. This is the first psalm he wrote, and no further words are needed by me. He shares this with you:

Being Held

By Nathan Eldridge

I held the Beginning and the Ending.

I held the Alpha and the Omega.

I held the Baby and the Boy.

I held the Man.

I held Hope.

I held Grace.

I held Salvation.

I held Love.

I held the Prophecies.

I held the Teacher.

I held the Mighty Counselor.

I held the King of the Jews.

I held Jesus.

I held him at his last Breath.

I held him at his last drop of Blood.

I was a symbol of punishment.

Now you hold me as a symbol of Forgiveness.

Now I am the empty Cross.

Amen.

Pat Pickett, OblSB

Photo: Taken by Nancy Bauer, OSB