The Limerick Temptation of Christ
James Tissot 1895 THE LIMERICK TEMPTATION OF CHRIST In a desert so dry and so vast, Jesus fasted, enduring at last. Then Satan appeared, With a voice that heartily cheered, "Turn stones into bread, break your fast." "Man lives not just on bread," Jesus replied, "But by God's word alone, I will abide," The devil once again tried, With a mountain deep and wide, "Jump, and be saved," he implied. "Angels will catch you," said he, "Prove God's love for thee," But Jesus declared, "Thou shalt not dare Test the Lord, for He is free." Next Satan ascended a height, "Bow down to me in your might," All forms of power will I give, If you will simply live, And forsake your divine right. Jesus rebuked him with a firm voice, "Get thee behind me, thou foul choice! You try to tempt and to sway, Yet I will always obey, For God's will is my only rejoice." Then the devil departed in shame, For J...
