2015.09.06: a river flows through us

then Jesus looked up to heaven and groaned, and said to him, “Ephphatha!” (that is, “Be opened!”) – Mk 7:34

Streams will burst forth in the desert, and rivers in the steppe. The burning sands will become pools, and the thirsty ground, springs of water. – Is 35:6-7

a river flows through us
whether or not we know it
whether or not we believe it
whether or not we acknowledge it

the water for which we thirst
resides in a wellspring deep within
waiting to be opened and called forth
even in the midst of the desert

none of us will be renewed
until we hear the word “Ephphatha!”
and allow our souls be opened
so the streams will burst forth

where burning sands once lay waste
water will spring forth on its way
to the all encompassing One Water
as it was created to be

a river flows through us
open our ears to hear the source of life
open our hearts to be reborn in its water
open our mouths to let the river praise

02.24.15: an oasis

Just as from the heavens
the rain and snow come down
And do not return there
till they have watered the earth,
making it fertile and fruitful,
Giving seed to the one who sows
and bread to the one who eats,
So shall my word be
that goes forth from my mouth;
It shall not return to me void,
but shall do my will,
achieving the end for which I sent it. – Is 55:10-11


 
like the desert
my soul was parched
thirsting for each word
from you, oh Lord

the rain fell on these
rocks and washed away
your words did not sink
into my thirsty soul

until the Word Incarnate
came and softened the soil
making it fertile and fruitful
and renewed the wellspring

now the words from heaven
fall and collect
and the Garden thrives
an oasis in the desert