[Poem-a-Week] Black Jesus by Frances Johnson

When I was three years old I met with Black Jesus
He was a velvet portrait
Tears streamed down his eyes as he wore the crown of thorns
He was looking to his father
was He black too?
Was Jesus black? I asked
I asked is this true?
My mother said no 
He was a Jew

For years I have prayed to a white Father
while mine was absent
who do I pray to?
who do I pray to?
Does my Jewish blood make me chosen
am I one of the chosen?
Will you answer me Jesus
your blood pours red
against sores 
of brown or white skin,
...
I do not know.

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“I have been writing poetry since childhood, and survived on a sense of whimsy and rhythm growing up. I took interest in poetry, and later rap as I consider this form one of the truest and most authentic in art. Some of my greatest inspirations are Maya Angelou, William Blake, Audre Lorde, Alice Walker, and Kanye West. I achieved a Masters of English from California State University Northridge. Poetry, to me is the art of feeling. I wish to share miracles and magic through poetry. We all need more of it!” - Frances Johnson

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