The Dark Night

“Crucify Him!” they cursed
    with frenzied hatred
    birthed from
        yesterday’s joy.

“Hosanna!” they sang
    “The King has come!”
    Centuries enslaved;
        a moment’s release.

How can lips
    form such opposites
    as hate and loyalty?
        A Judas kiss.

Was it their contradictions
    that prompted Jesus
    to forgive
        their ignorance?

Did they remember -
    at the cross -
    the palm fronds
        and rocks longing to sing?

Their hearts turned quickly
    from loyalty
    to betrayal.
        And the rooster crowed.

Their voice,
    my voice.
    Their contradiction
        mine.