October 1-2, 2021

To Pastor Artur Pawlowski

Did you notice that I said 'Pastor'?

I did that on purpose, intentionally

I almost didn’t, for all your words

But, whether I agree with you or no

you are a pastor and merit respect

however difficult it is for me to give

It is the reason I write these words

Even as many admire your stand,

your posture as the heroic David

opposing the evil force of oppression,

(I admit your courage is impressive)

I am troubled to reconcile your title

to your actions and to your words

For what you do belies what you are

or what you claim to be if you're not

Here, I have some examples for you:

You've been arrested for flouting law

Jesus was arrested for speaking truth

You've been released to your own life

Jesus was cut off before His time

You've been insulting the authorities

Jesus was never with an evil word

You’ve been rejecting those you despise

Jesus was relentless in His love

How does what you do, what you say

bless those whom you say persecute you?

How does what you do, what you say

begin to approach Jesus cry "Forgive!"?

Is it a wonder I found it hard to say 'Pastor'

when you so carelessly fail His example?