A Servant’s Mantle

By: Naa Doodua Doodua

Though man, he stands—a gift of Christ to humankind.
Not merely a priest, but the living image of our Master.
A sinful man, once born, now born of the spirit, cleansed anew in holy baptism.
He conceals his pain beneath a stern smile,
Shoulders loaded with the weight of unspoken sacrifice.
No display of infallibility does he make—
The world detects his frailty, but refuses to notice the grace he bestows.
He is ridiculed and spat upon for each fall,
But keeps on going, forgiving, praying, and leading.
He raises his people up to God,
Through whispered prayers and joyful thanksgiving.