Priestly Imaginings

Taking our cue from Eden,
Regarding the intended human vocation:
An unbelieving world must be gathered up,
Transporting them to God's location.

Sovereignly graced for this,
Though neglectful as Edenic priests,
Meant to represent humanity to God,
From those in authority, to the very least.

Our essential task of regular intercession,
Has, sadly, been widely misunderstood.
Standing in the gap exceeds prayers.
It means taking the bullet, if we could.

The Apostle Paul is a worthy example,
Willing to be cut off for his people.
The elect must be praying for the same:
Those not gathered, under the steeple.

Actual atonement is outside our purview.
Nevertheless, the Christ is our blueprint.
Therefore, we bear His marks and die daily,
Yes, even to the point we are spent.

We were never put here to do nothing,
Simply living prosperous lives for gain.
No, to die is gain, but to live is Christ,
Even though this often translates to pain.

This is our service as Kingdom citizens,
Functioning as both priest and sacrifice,
Working and tilling as mutual gardeners,
Assured that this shall suffice.

--
Dr. William Kilgore is a sociology professor and theologian residing in Houston, Texas. After nearly 30 years as an academic, William began writing poetry in August, 2024, while at home recovering from a kidney transplant, at the age of 56. This opened up a door to a new way of contemplating things that was entirely new to him. In particular, and similar to journaling practices, writing poetry deepened William's faith, helping him to think through devotional, theological and emotional issues in his thoughts.