#AtoZChallenge: Letter P

Lots of words in today's poem that begin with the Letter P for the #AtoZChallenge: Pharisee, preach, pray, perfect, pious — can you tell I like alliteration?  

Pharisee Friend
 
“Why do you believe what you do?”
A friend asked me the other day.
“All I hear is vitriol
From those who preach and pray.”
 
I thought about my answer,
Not wanting to offend,
But needing to be faithful
In a world that’s filled with sin.
 
“I believe what the Bible says –
That God condemns such things.
I know that I’m not perfect;
I rely on grace God brings.”
 
I saw the way she briefly looked
And knew what went through her mind:
“I’ve seen you sin, my pious friend,
Do you think I’m completely blind?”
 
How do I explain myself
To someone who’s seen me sin?
To her I’m just a Pharisee
She tolerates as a friend.
 
God, help the life I’ve journeyed
Be an example of your grace,
Let others see your mercy,
Not the sin I once embraced.

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