JOHN 20

In darkness of early hours
a cave void of treasure once held

its emptiness
a grieving heart
reaches out to grasp the hope of dawn

pale morning light wakens those who have loved
garden's shadows draw them in
a whisper calls forth treasured memories
spectres of Friday linger, repel

the visitors stumble on discarded nails
pain grips exhausted bodies
as sunrise greets newness of day

scent of spices kissed by fresh breeze
enfolds gently those who seek

terror appals
divine love quietly calls

men run confused by hopes and fears
the Lord is seen
through woman's tears
he speaks and all are blessed this day
as pain and death are wiped away

Helen Watson