Water and the Word: Gathering
Here we are, O God,
socially distanced
by a nefarious virus,
yet communally drawn together
by a mysterious thirst
for living water
for our bodies
and our souls.
Here we are, O God,
lifting up
our immuno-compromised
and health-challenged
sisters and brothers,
praying that we do not,
by our carelessness
or our insensitivity,
contribute a greater threat
to their well-being.
Here we are, O God,
gathered in ways
we pray are faithful,
seeking guidance,
both through our medical professionals
and your spirit and truth.
Here we are, O God,
lifting up our anxiety and dread
with open palms,
asking you
to take it from us,
so that our palpitations
are calmed,
our tachycardia,
steadied.
Here we are, O God,
revealing our deepest
grief and loss,
longing to remain cognizant
of your strong but tender hand
undergirding us through it all.
Here we are, O God,
offering our whole selves —
bodies, minds, and souls —
to the gathering ways
and relationships
of your love.
Here we are, O God,
fully prepared
to part with all
that separates us
from you,
and therefore
also separates us
from our neighbors.
© 2020 Todd Jenkins
