By Colleen Church Leonard of Midland, TX, USA
For he delivers the needy when they call, the poor and those who have no helper. He has pity on the weak and the needy, and saves the lives of the needy. From oppression and violence he redeems their life; and precious is their blood in his sight. —Psalm 72:12–14 NRSV
O God, Giver of Manna,
Broken-hearted and impatient,
I protest your painful absence;
How long must I hold an empty vessel,
Reach out, but come away empty still?
Doubt overcomes my faith and desire;
I am a vessel of anger and rebellion, and then
The exasperated finality of the blurted Amen.
O Lord God, Bread of Life,
Every good and perfect gift comes from Thee.
My anger gone, quietened by the Spirit,
My heart rebels and resents no more;
Faith replacing doubt fills my bowl
With tender love and devotion for Thee;
Brings comfort and tranquility;
I hold your best gift—Peace. And then
The accepted finality of a quiet Amen.
O Christ, Wine of the Soul,
The cup of sweet truth I want to share,
A testimony of your love and care;
Let me know compassion for others,
Brokenhearted and empty as was I.
Pouring out my sin of habit and greed,
Replaced by vision, mission, and joyful need,
Share my vessel of zeal globally, and then
The joyous finality of the shouted Amen.
May I see your light in all life.
Invitation to Spiritual Practice
Light of God
Close your eyes, and become centered with your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light, and it lives in you.