I don’t have long, Isaac,
and I am fearful of parting
in the thick silence
about that day. I know,
there are no right words,
only mere attempts.
When I arrived in Canaan
from Ur, an old man,
I became a stranger;
I was learning new ways
and discernment
on the desert dunes.
Loneliness was my constant
companion in this strange
promised land
and when I saw the dwellers
offer their children as sacrifice* –
darkness engulfed me.
It was then
that I heard a voice –
that I should sacrifice you.
I do not ask that you
forgive or understand.
I know,
the earth will cover my body,
the desert wind
will harden your features,
and you will fight
many battles with yourself
before your heart can heal.
Only to your mercy I commend
my searching heart,
and I hand you the Promise.
*Child sacrifices were common amongst Canaanites when Abraham arrived in the land.