The Preacher's Lie

With pupils fixed on the collection plate,
Sweat streaming down a wretched face,
And lethally distended neck veins,
He appealed to the sympathy of his victims,
“God wants us all to be rich!” he cried. 
“Cast your bread upon the waters!” someone implored;
Maybe an accomplice, a friend or a fool. 
“Amen!” shrieked a woman, lavishly dressed,
As she stutters like an old engine and crumbles to the floor.

Is it I alone who have seen this act,
The false prophet, the woman, and the fool,
All part of a ridiculous plot?
It's just another tale from the swindler’s script.
He echoes again the fib from his lips: 
“God wants us all to be rich!” 
Did Jesus wear Armani suits and ties, 
And sandals made from crocodiles’ hide? 
The crowd applauded the exaggerated stunt,
As he frolics, shivers and growls,
Like someone who’s drunk.
Remember the slogan that says: “In God we trust?” 
Preserve this notion:
The poor will always be with us.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2010



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Date: 8/29/2010 5:13:00 PM
This one I understand from both sides of the scene...It is sad when anyone misuses their position and especially uses God's name to do what is not right..I enjoy this one..Thanks for stopping by and commenting on my write "Only Link Telephone Line"..Our son is healing..Thank God for the fact that he had the VA to fall back on so that he could get the care that he needed..Sara
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Date: 8/5/2010 10:22:00 AM
Wow, Earle, you certainly got your point across in style in this poem. I do believe God wants us all to be rich spiritually and have full, meaningful lives. My church's emphasis on fundraising irks me from time to time. Brilliant writing! Love, Carolyn
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Date: 8/5/2010 3:44:00 AM
Wow, this poem is simple, yet captivating. Good work! http://www.moneyquestionsanswered.blogspot.com
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Date: 8/4/2010 8:27:00 PM
Earle, I enjoyed your Preacher tale. That is the way it is in my church. lol,, the only one rich and living up to his words is the preacher...Enjoyed,..p.d.
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