What are these Wounds? Christ the King of the Universe

Blessed Feast of Christ the King of the Universe!  In Year C of the Liturgical Cycle, we view Christ on the royal throne of the Cross.  Here is a poem by one of our Sisters who contemplates and questions the Crucified King:

Chapter Room Crucifix

What are these Wounds? 

“What are these wounds, my Lord, upon Your breast?”

Asked one among the household of His own.

“These wounds are made by those I favor best.”

He who replied, the King upon His throne,

Bore wounds as well in hands and feet and side.

With light resplendent all the bruises shone,

And as he held their mirror to His bride,

A sadness infinite was in His eyes.

Yet love and lasting pity flowed full tide

And broke upon the shores of her disguise

To wash her gently back against His breast.

“Am I not more to you than self’s vain prize?”

Then she through whom the sword of shame had passed

Asked not, “What are these wounds upon Your breast?”