What will all of these animals do—
The bulls and the rams,
The cows and the sheep,
The pigeons and the goats,
And the lambs—
Now that sacrifice has been abolished?

Will they return home,
To tell the good news,
To the hawks, wolves, and camouflaged hunters?
Their joyful songs echoing through the valley,
Each one worshipping according to its kind,
Praising their redeemer.

After all, Jesus took their place—
Not ours.

Will they come to the table,
And receive the bread and wine,
The gifts of grain and fruit?

Will they join us at the love feast,
"Every green plant for food"?

Or must they too, wait patiently?
Eyes cast heavenward,
Flesh groaning for redemption,
Praying “Father forgive them"
Still interceding.

About the author: Matthew Morin worships with Milwaukee Mennonite Church.