Mercy

When the priests and the priests' priests have closed ranks,
And their flocks and their flocks' flocks have tendered thanks,
Will the unchosen find themselves bereft of hope, of light
Because, unwashed, they dared seek solace in the night?
If so, pray instruct me Lord, what say the Godly's God
To those who soulfully implore He spare the rod?

--Parkbench