If you would come after me,
you must deny yourself and
take up your cross and follow me. (1)
The self you have been must be crucified like me.
If you do not leave the old self patterned on this world,
if you love staying in a familiar place, you cannot stay with me.
My way is different from your way;
My thoughts are not your thoughts. (2)
Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies,
how can it bear much fruit? (3)
Do not be astonished that I said to you,
you must fall and die to be born again. (4)
In a world that crucifies others instead of crucifying self,
a grain of wheat must fall to the ground and die.
With death comes the potential for heaven to recreate life.
Do not be astonished; I am the grain of wheat.
Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart. (5)
Do not be astonished by my way.
I will fall to the earth and die.
I am the grain of wheat in this wilderness.
Rev. Yong Sub Sim
Poem based on John 12:24.
(1) Matthew 16:24
(2) Isaiah 55:8
(3) John 12:24
(4) John 3:7
(5) Matthew 11:29
