Joseph's Coat

*** Revised Common Lectionary *** Lectionary Reading: Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28 and Psalm 105: 1-6, 16-22, 45b CLASSIC POEM: Joseph’s Coat George Herbert Wounded I sing, tormented I indite, Thrown down I fall into a bed, and rest: Sorrow hath chang’d its note: such is his will, Who changeth all things, as him pleaseth best. For well he knows, if but one grief and smart Among my many had his full career, Sure it would carrie with it ev’n my heart, And both would runne untill they found a biere To fetch the bodie; both being due to grief. But he hath spoil’d the race; and giv’n to anguish One of Joyes coats, ticing it with relief To linger in me, and together languish. I live to shew his power, who once did bring My joyes to weep, and now my griefs to sing. *** This poem is in the public domain, and may be read in a live-streamed worship service. CONTEMPORARY POEM: A Poem for Joseph and his Brothers Carol Penner SNIPPET: … Reuben’s voice as eldest would have decided the outcome. But instead the cup of resentment, filled drop by drop for years, is drained in one sudden act of violence. … [ READ THE FULL POEM ]