He Just Said No

In the garden on his knees
Where no one else would ever see
From the fatal choice he longed to flee—
He just said No.

Before those who could set him free
Who accused and questioned mercilessly
Who demanded denial of divinity—
He just said No.

From the crowd poured forth the lie
For his sin they shouted, “Crucify!”
To defend himself or justify—
He just said No.

Like wild dogs with goading bait
They dared him to retaliate
To stop his love and return their hate—
He just said No.

Hearing the blasphemy of his name
Recalling the purpose for which he came
Embracing the gall to deny the pain—?
He just said No.

© 1997 K.K. Pullen