Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Lent to the Lord

1 Samuel 1:21-2:11
The following poem, entitled “Lent to the Lord”, was inspired by the story of Hannah bringing her son Samuel to the temple in Shilo and leaving him there to serve with Eli the priest (1 Samuel 1:24-28).

What must be said, mother to child,
that explains the promise,
that confirms the intent,
that eases separation,
that masks deep emotion?

Lent to the Lord, you are, given to God.
Lent to the Lord, you are, child of my womb.

And what will the child say in light of his fear,
on the steps of the temple,
on the cusp of the holy,
that shows his ascent,
that marks understanding?

Lent to the Lord, I am, given to God.
Lent to the Lord, I am, no longer your child.

And what will the Lord say,
through the prophet, God’s voice,
that will open the door,
that will honor the moment,
that will bless and will consecrate?

Lent to the Lord, you are, given to me.
Lent to the Lord, you are, child of my heart.

Prayer: Lord, may we, too, acknowledge your place in our lives, that we are your children, and may we serve you always. Amen.

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