A word, a whisper

After Nehemiah 6:1-14 and I John 4:16-19

A word, a whisper,

a low muttering,

a brief gust of wind,

a small shiver,

a chill, a glance

toward the sky

a wondering if

it is momentary

or a harbinger

the understanding that

it may not matter.

Photograph by Circe Denyer via Public Domain Pictures. Used with permission.

A tortured time

After Nehemiah 6:1-14 and I John 4:16-19

It is a tortured time,

easier to believe the worst

assume the best is foolish

assume the best is dangerous.

Voices mock trust, ridicule

belief. Choruses of distrust

sing and shout to drown

understanding, to extinguish

love.

A time when to overcome

and crush is everything,

a hollow time

for hollow men.

Photograph by Lynn Greyling via Public Domain Pictures. Used with permission.

Almost complete

After Nehemiah 6:1-14 and I John 4:16-19

The work almost complete

the work of strength

and beauty, complete

except for the doors

of the gates, the work

preceded by the call

and the command

almost complete

then the accusation

of treason and revolt,

rebellion and ambition,

an accusation aimed

to undermine within

and conspire without

and instead of reaction

comes wisdom:

strengthen my hands

to complete the work.

Photograph by George Hodan via Public Domain Pictures. Used with permission.