HE-GOAT

“Into the mountain” Jesus went to pray

Before His choosing of the twelve, as when

The he-goat picks its solitary way

Among the heights; and He went thus again

To be transfigured, shining as the light

For chosen ones to see. And was abroad

Upon the mount of Olives that He might

Have undisturbed communion with His God.

A he-goat is a sacrificial beast

Fit for a prince, who would be covered by

Atonement through its blood made by the priest:

For our atonement Jesus walked to die.

But now He draws us to those heights apart

Where His joy leaps, to satisfy His heart.

(Leviticus 4: 22-26; Song of Songs 2: 8)