ChinaAid has exclusively published a series of poetry and writings from Pastor John Cao, a recently released Chinese Christian prisoner of conscience. The pieces were written on May 11, 2024, and have been minimally edited for clarity.
In one of his poems, Pastor Cao reflects on the Han dynasty when emperors were buried wearing golden thread garments. He notes that most of these tombs were eventually looted by grave robbers, leaving only idle chatter for fishermen and woodcutters. He writes:
"Filial sons erect steles to bury the golden body,
As lamps extinguish, bacteria consume, deep in the rotting mud.
Fishermen and woodcutters chat and laugh about worldly affairs,
Keeping grave robbers busy prying open tomb doors."
In another poem, he recalls an incident during the Spring and Autumn Period involving Yan Ying, a prime minister in the State of Qi who was short in stature. When sent on a diplomatic mission to the State of Chu, the King wanted to humiliate him by asking him to crawl through a dog hole. Yan Ying refused, stating he would only enter if he were visiting a dog state. Pastor Cao praises this with his words:
"The King of Chu growls low, the hole already open,
If you know what’s good for you, obediently crawl in.
But a man’s dignity and backbone are not broken,
How can one lower their brows and roll up like a mat to be stuffed?"
Pastor Cao also shares reflections on biblical passages such as Micah 6:8 and Romans 12:1 where he speaks about abundant grace in life:
"A life of abundant grace, willingly offering myself,
Trying to repay a fraction, yet struggling to keep up.
The Lord smiles, delighting in my heart,
I need only humbly run on the narrow path."
In another reflection based on Matthew 21:19 and Matthew 6:1-2, he draws a metaphor of a solitary tree by the road:
"A solitary tree by the road, flaunting widely,
Upon closer look, no flowers or fruit to be found.
Wasting water, squandering sunlight, occupying land in vain,
Better to chop it down, give it to the woodcutter for firewood."
Finally, Pastor Cao shares his thoughts on Luke 15 with a depiction of a shepherd's dedication and a father's love:
"Thieves mercilessly invade, stealing sheep,
The shepherd, anxious, holds his staff and approaches.
In the scorching wilderness, he sweats and cares for the flock,
Amidst surging waves, he diligently fishes.
Sleeping under the stars, head on a stone, snakes flicking their tongues,
Carrying water, preparing fodder, welcoming new sheep at the door.
The prodigal son’s return, a distant hope,
The father’s love remains, like a cow licking its calf."
For those interested in reading more of Pastor John Cao’s poetry can purchase his collection written while he was imprisoned titled "Living Lyrics: Poems from Prison".
