by Rosalie Weller

“My milit’ry experience reveals
The chain of command ebbs and flows.
Jesus, say the word; he will be healed.

Once spoken my orders are obeyed and sealed
Everyone knows what action they must take.
Jesus, say the word; he will be healed.

Soldiers stand to attention in the field,
Not flinching as they perform their duty.
Jesus, say the word; he will be healed.

I know this sickness may well be lethal.
My loyal and trusted servant may die.
Jesus, say the word; he will be healed.

Your disciples and the crowd will be thrilled
Your holy presence speaks of your authority.
Jesus, say the word: he will be healed.

My servant has been through such an ordeal.
His body is retching with pain.
As the heavens and earth are stilled,	
Jesus say the word; he will be healed.”

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Rosalie Weller is a retired ordained minister of the Uniting Presbyterian Church of Southern Africa. She is also a qualified school teacher, becoming the head of the Ethics Faculty of a state school in the UK. Although she has always written poetry and short stories, retirement affords her more time to hone the crafts. She runs two writing groups, affiliated to the Association of Christian Writers and is the Groups’ Coordinator for that organisation, serving on the national committee. In her writing, Rosalie enjoys exploring different poetic forms.