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]