Franklin Wolf | Commissioner on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom | China Aid Advisory Board website
"Reflections from Pastor John Cao is a series of poetry and writings from the recently released Chinese Christian prisoner of conscience exclusively published by ChinaAid. The pieces below were written on April 24, 2024 and has been minimally edited for clarity. To read more of Pastor John Cao’s poetry, one can purchase the collection written while he was imprisoned, Living Lyrics: Poems from Prison.
‘Rivers, lakes, ravines, and valleys – all serve as my home, Wherever there’s a need, that’s where I’ll go. Though I once admired life in cozy neighborhoods, Now burying desires, joyful to the earth’s ends I’ll roam.’
‘Fine tea relies on water to release its subtle fragrance, Quenching thirst, warmth penetrates the weak and empty bowels. Pouring for each other, deep feelings brew amidst casual chats, A refreshing aura wafts up, bringing tranquility and health.’
‘Being assigned here is truly fortunate, Others can’t bear the worries, not knowing our sentiments. Baptized in the Jordan River, nourished by the mist, Gazing at the wisps of clouds, hoping for timely rain.’
‘At the age of sixty, I still humbly yearn for my mother, Nourishment flows constantly through the umbilical cord. With a frail body, she gladly acts as a scaffold, Helping her son to building the glorious career of a servant.’
‘I am fortunate to come here in my old age; this is my school, where I must diligently make up lessons to equip myself.’
‘Toiling daily, busy gathering from flowers, Wishing only for all to enjoy the lingering fragrance. Soft wings vigorously traversing tens of thousands of miles, Small and delicate, yet hearts united in manifesting the Heavenly Father’s great virtue.’
