Temptation

 

A poetic sermon about a Faustian pact.

Would you resist temptation in these dark times, or instead choose fame, power and incredible wealth?

Do you believe in the immense value of your soul, regardless of your faith, and understand the eternal consequences of seemingly small or big decisions?

It’s a reminder that what the world offers may be dazzling, but it’s fleeting. 

And what the divine of your choice offers may seem subtle, or sacrificial, but it could lead to eternal peace.

Looking at the world in conflict today, on all levels: do you think many just took the money, fame, and power, or all three?

Title.

Temptation 

(A lone voice whispers)

Belial came to me late last night, just after three

With Faustian promises of riches and such auspicious delights

But as I prayed while he talked 

As my faith shimmered but never once swayed

A beautiful bright light suddenly appeared and came my way

A soft voice

Spoke gently and held me hypnotised 

As it whispered as the tiny molecules of golden light which surrounded its form

Defeated the encroaching darkness 

In every way

Listen not

To Belial, 

The Lord of the Flies

But to me,

The divine messenger 

From the Most High

Bend thy knee

And pray, 

Follow my decrees

Belial might promise you promiscuous sins of the flesh 

Riches beyond all the eyes can ever see

I simply offer freedom 

Beyond this lifetime 

A rebirth on the silvery shores and golden cities

By the blessed Holy Sea

Be careful what you choose 

You hold so much which you could so easily lose

As the clocks through midnight ticked

As each soothing voice echoed deep within the many recesses of my mind

What choices I chose in this life 

I'll accept as payment 

When it's called

In time

For I now know I have something too precious to lose

My eternal soul 

Which doesn’t want to wander forever lost 

In the Bad Lands 

Of the Burning Black Coal

(C)

Copyright John Duffy

Image shared under fair usage policy.