Elisha Cry

Abraham and Isaac, Isaac and Jacob

Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha

Jesus and John, Jesus and Peter

Paul and Timothy

Down through the ages

Fathers and sons

Masters and disciples

Nothing's changed, it's still the way

Elijah in motion

Mentorship, discipleship, sharpening

Tomorrow's generals are today's lieutenants

Teaching to lead, learning to teach

Oh, that I might be a disciple

I don't care who it is

The ones I already consider?

Or whoever

Surely there is a Paul for me

Yes, Abba, you are my father

But don't you want to give me an earthly one?

My dad rests with you

A man who never fully possessed his birthright

Safe in Abraham's bosom

I rejoice for him

But I am still here

I need a father's voice

Am I not worthy?

Am I not your son?

Provide for me

Give me someone to look up to

Let me sit at his feet

Let me listen like Mary to him

To sit and listen in quiet

That I might learn to listen to you

Touch my hip if you have to

But give me this blessing

Stephen Pursell, 9/04

During my years in prison I walked as a christian and thus was the object of much hatred for my ability to love those who are generally rejected by criminally-minded prison culture. My refusal to participate in prison inmate politics and my open demonstrations of love for my christian brothers, and others I reached out to in God's love, who were of varying racial and cultural backgrounds was feared and hated by men of evil intent. As a result I was physically attacked many times. Since the system does not care whether one is defending himself against an unprovoked attack and it only seeks to accuse, condemn, and punish, and abuse I was always thrown in solitary confinement for defending myself. I do not remember specifically but I expect this poem came from one of those passages through solitary confinement due to persecution. But what a blessing to be persecuted for the the Lord and share in his sufferings! Hallelujah!