EXODUS 21:5. “And if the servant shall plainly say, ‘I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free:’” GO OUT FREE. The years passed slowly at first – Boredom of unrequited labor seems futile- And then – a change, a wife, a gift, a love. The sunrises are more beautiful – sunsets more serene. Love has come – given by a benevolent Master And servitude has a meaning.
Joy comes – not with a paycheck – But with new life and then – lives – Given by the miracle of life from God. He who holds the keys that start and stop – Has graciously given – little living proofs of love – And life has a meaning.
The calendar says, the day has come – it’s here – No escaping the beckoning hand of independence – Self-freedom, shackleless, pride of ownership again – Calls loud and clear to me saying, “Come.” And love watches from an increasing distance –
And liberty has a meaning.
Watching eyes from doors and windows – and the gate – And two turn, looking over new-freed shoulders – The door is there; freedom just beyond waits. Paused at the door – feet stop - moves sideways – The words – the awl – the blood drops - the forever-hole – And love has a meaning.
“The news is good Father, You have saved another young man we overlooked for years. How good and gracious of You to reach David. He will be watched by his parents and others to see if he too belongs to the fraternity of the “bored ear.” May I truly make manifest that is who I am. “I love my Master, I love my wife, I love my children. I will not go out free. Amen."