Monday, April 4, 2011

The Ballad of Doubting Thomas


THE BALLAD OF DOUBTING THOMAS
Miserere eum nobisque


When Christ came down from off the cross
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
None were but did bewail his loss.
and the cherry blooms in spring

When Christ arose from out the grave
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
then some did doubt and some believe.
and the cherry blooms in spring

When Thomas heard the news they bore
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
He shook his head and scoffed and swore.
and the cherry blooms in spring

"I'll never credit this disguise
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
save that I see with mine own eyes."
and the cherry blooms in spring

"Nor with you will I not rejoice
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
unless I hear his very voice."
and the cherry blooms in spring

"No more with Christians will I stand
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
ere I touch the nail-holes with this hand."
and the cherry blooms in spring

Then the wind did blow and the rain did moan
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
And Thomas walked along alone.
and the cherry blooms in spring

He saw a figure in the road
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
That might, or might not, be his Lord.
and the cherry blooms in spring



"O Thomas, dost thou know me now?"
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
"Naught know I,  save you show me how."
and the cherry blooms in spring

Then Christ revealed his wound so wide
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
And Thomas thrust his hand inside.
and the cherry blooms in spring

He fell to 's knees without a word
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
Then said: Thou art my Lord my God.
and the cherry blooms in spring


Praise God that Thomas is reprieved.
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
Thrice blest who saw not, yet believed.
and the cherry blooms in spring

Then when from faith away we fall
Oh the leaves drop down in autumn
May God have mercy on us all.
and the cherry blooms in spring




[For a related poem, see:  The Healing of Jesus]

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