Catholic Poet

In Silence

2012-01-26T16:33:00.000-08:00

In silence also there is praise.
I watch the sunlight's liquid dance
over our Lord's tabernacle.
I've poured out my heart. Now I wait
for Him to refill it. The dew
falls like sweet balm on my spirit.
In silence also there is praise.

Pentecost haiku

2011-06-12T20:43:00.001-07:00

From heaven the Spirit plunges
deep into our hearts,
love's infinity.

Pentecost Ponderings

2011-06-09T15:57:00.000-07:00

Be.
Be still.
Know.
Be still and know.
Know.
That.
I AM.
God.

Pentecost comfort

2011-06-06T14:18:00.000-07:00

Spirit, hear my prayer and come to me.
Your wings are made of light
and effortless is your flight.

My steps drag across the earth,
heavy with the muddy years,
staggering with the weight of fears.

Spirit, give me your gift of fortitude,
an eventide of boundless grace,
the strength to finish in the race.

Pentecost

2011-06-02T14:58:00.000-07:00

Come, and open your heart.
Throw wide the shutters.
Put off the weights
that drag you down.
Ascend like a feather
in the arms of the wind.
It will blow through you,
filling you with power,
speaking with your voice.
Listen! The wind blows
wherever it wills.
It will carry you
by paths untrodden
to where you would not go.
Rejoice and be glad.

Heavenly help

2011-05-20T11:00:00.001-07:00

For we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses.I

What if a monk named Francis
asked you to stop and intercede
for the poor who suffer everywhere?
Would you spare for them a fervent prayer?

What if a nun called Faustina
asked you to join her unending plea
for mercy on those about to die?
Would you pray gladly and not ask why?

What if Margaret Mary took your hand
and bade you give your life
to adoration of the Sacred Heart?
Would you consider it just a start?

You need not go alone to pray.
There are many teachers on the way.

Shared Destiny

2011-05-15T08:54:00.000-07:00

"I shall not die,"
the child believes
and laughs in her delight.

"I came to die,"
the savior cries
In anguish to the night.

"I too shall die,"
the child soon learns
and feels the stab of fear.

"I live forever,"
Jesus proclaims.
"Look up, for I am here."

May haiku

2011-05-06T07:31:00.000-07:00

Mary's month has come,
bursting with resurrection.
All praise to our God.

Meeting

2011-04-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

The eyes of the angel
and the woman meet.
His glance is a flame,
Heaven's light
pierces her heart
and finds no shadow.
He looks into her eyes
and sees an ocean
of grace brimming
overflowing,
in tears of joy.

Perseverance

2011-04-05T11:43:00.000-07:00

I am a candle flickering in the wind.
How shall I burn with a steady light?
Set me on a stand, a sure foundation.
Encompass me about with protection.

I am a candle flickering in the wind.
How shall I burn with a steady light?
Melt and mold me according to Your will.
Set me to blazing with an eternal spark.

I am a candle flickering in the wind.
How shall I burn with a steady light?
Let me feast on the unbroken stream
of oil poured from your overflowing grace.

The gift of tongues

2011-03-30T07:44:00.000-07:00

Grant to me, O Lord,
the gift of tongues,
that I might speak a word
powerful and true.
Jesus.

Grant to me, O Lord,
the gift of tongues
that I might speak a word
to bring others peace.
Jesus.

Grant to me, O Lord,
the gift of tongues,
that I might speak a word
of illuminating light.
Jesus.

Grant to me, O Lord,
The gift of tongues,
That I might speak a word,
ringing loud with love.
Jesus.

Lenten struggle

2011-03-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

Our times are filled to overflowing
with the staggering weight of things.
Frozen gazes locked to TVs,
wrists chained to computer keypads,
dragging behind chains of houses
stuffed with the debris of malls,
we lurch and strain to move.

Tonight I dream of deserts,
empty spaces where the wind can blow.
The Son of God sits on a rock
and looks up at the stars --
emptiness upon emptiness and yet
filled with the glory of God.

Lord, make us empty again
that we too may be filled
with your shining light.

Welcome, Lent

2011-03-08T15:05:00.000-08:00

Lent comes wrapped in purple,
like twilight at the end of day,
sunset before eternal dawn.

Now all voices fall silent
and hidden stars start to gleam
in the darkening dome of heaven.

Lent Haiku

2011-03-04T15:03:00.000-08:00

Spring plants reach skyward,
but humans bow low, sending
their roots in search of water.

I Saw a Vision Once

2011-03-02T10:09:00.000-08:00

I saw a vision once

On an ordinary day
In my ordinary way
I was avoiding
An urge to pray.

The Spirit kept tugging,
kept gently bugging
while I ignored
the voice of the Lord.

But He would not stop,
He would not quit,
Until I found
A place to sit,
To open up my heart and say,
"All right, all ready, I will pray."

What happened then was all His grace.
He snatched me up to a heavenly place.
I saw His throne, I saw His love,
a thunderous river from above,
pouring down on us below,
an endless, ever-giving flow.

The years have come, the years have gone,
and yet the vision lingers on.
When days are dark and nights are long,
When the heart falls silent without song,
I let the vision rise once more,
I stand at heaven's open door.

Lift up your face
toward His throne.
The Spirit says "Come and taste!"
Listen! Go now. Make haste.

Resurrection Day

2011-02-27T10:12:00.000-08:00

Leaving death behind,
he walks in the garden.
Dew glitters at his feet
baptizing the world
with new life.
The curse is broken.
The birds sing
full-throated with joy.
Only the woman weeps,
seeing him through tears.
Wipe your tears,
Heaven's child.
He is here,
and with us forever.

Consuming Fire

2011-02-22T16:40:00.001-08:00

"Our God is a consuming fire."

In the darkness
of the cold tomb
a light kindles.

Life explodes
out of death
In bright glory.

This consuming fire
burns up fear,
destroys despair.

"He is risen,"
the angels shout
In ecstasy.

Headed Home

2011-02-19T09:54:00.001-08:00

Sometimes the years are heavy,
burdened with the weight
of remembered sins.
Sometimes the years are light
like a summer breeze
rushing by my cheek.

In my weariness you strengthen me,
in my exuberance you anchor me.
When all things shift and change
You are the calm center,
the unchanging beacon
lighting the pathway home.

Transformation

2011-02-13T09:44:00.000-08:00

I bring you a gift, O my Lord.
Take it if you will,
this granite rock.
I lay it on your altar,
hard and cold,
a shriveled lump.
And now I kneel and lean to you,
my mouth open to receive.
Your life quickens me.
Your blood revives me.
Your divinity transforms.
In our shared silence
a heart begins to beat.

Friends in high places

2011-02-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

On lonely nights
I whisper low
a chant I taught
my lips to know.

I've got friends in high places
watching my back.
I've got friends with bright graces
my soul may lack.

When Satan's snares
entrap my feet
I shout aloud
to his defeat:

I've got friends in high places
watching my back.
I've got friends with bright graces
my soul may lack.

When weakness looms
To my distress
I have a creed
I can confess.

I've got friends in high places
watching my back.
I've got friends with bright graces
my soul may lack.

Communion prayer

2011-02-08T13:07:00.001-08:00

The priest says, "Learn to listen
with the ears of your heart."
My heart is noisy, Lord,
full of clamoring thoughts,
yapping fears, senseless distractions.
How will I ever hear
the whisper of your voice?

In mercy you provide
a silence born of grace.
Sheltered in love's embrace,
I kneel and receive you.
The world fades to nothing.
The ears of my heart open.
Speak, Lord, for I listen.

The angel's visit

2011-02-06T08:14:00.000-08:00

The angel was beauty
that burned like a fire.
His brightness scorched the air.
He sent words of thunder
rolling through her heart,
a lightening bolt of truth,
unbearable light.

The woman was beauty
that lay like a sweet balm
on raw wounds torn open
by the ancient rebellion.
The angel marveling
saw she had the strength
To bear the heavenly weight.

With a humble spirit she
opened her heart to hear.
With the courage of faith she
opened her lips to speak.
"Let it be done to me
according to thy word."

Coming home

2011-01-12T16:06:00.000-08:00

When coming home
a closed door means nothing.
You have the key.
Inside warmth and light,
welcoming arms,
bread to give strength,
a cup to take away thirst.
Come, be at your ease,
surrounded by family.

Song for a New Year

2011-01-02T15:31:00.000-08:00

The angels know --
and heaven, too--
I did not come
seeking you.
But wandering far
from you was found
and in strong cords
of love was bound.

You kissed my head,
you kissed my feet,
you sat me down
and bid me eat.
I supped on bread
and drank sweet wine,
and hunger ceased
for I was fed.

The angels know --
and heaven, too --
that all I have
has come from you.
The only thing
I have to give --
eternal thanks
each day I live.

Advent Offering

2010-12-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

I come to do your will, O Lord.
So the ancient prophet spake
when he glimpsed your holy birth,
Emmanuel come at last to Earth.

Behold the handmaid of the Lord.
So your blessed mother spake
and in that moment conceived a son,
savior of the world, promised one.

I offer my life to do your will ...
so your children kneeling pray.
Once more to Earth you come in love
with tender blessings from above.

Advent Thoughts

2010-12-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

When I was a child,
Advent lasted forever.
O sweet anticipation.
Would Christmas ever come?

When I was a child,
life stretched ahead forever.
Plenty of days to prepare
to face my coming King.

Now the candles dance
brighter week by week.
One and two and three and done.
Are you ready for the Son?

Advent vigil

2010-11-27T09:57:00.000-08:00

He came to us
not in splendor
but in humility,
for we are all humble.

He came to us
not in raging wrath
but weak as a babe,
for we are all weak.

He came to us
not in blinding light
but when darkness was deepest,
for we live in darkness.

Jesus, our Lord,
Come in splendor.
Come in justice.
Come in glory.

Advent approaches

2010-11-25T22:35:00.000-08:00

Behold, a voice calling.
His words climb the hillsides,
echo in the valleys.
Repent, cleanse your hearts.

Behold, a voice will call
one day from heaven's door
announcing the last Advent,
the fiery day of the Lord.

Listen, angels are singing.
This is the time between.
Grace flows from a baby's smile.
Go while you can and worship.

Lover of my soul

2010-11-14T08:37:00.000-08:00

Lovers are never apart.
Their souls are ever watching,
Aware of their beloved.
Beside each other hand in hand
Or a thousand miles away,
they remain together,
united in love.

You and I are never apart.
For you are ever watching,
Who are named Faithful and True.
When I stumble your hand
holds me with a lover's care.
You keep us together
united in love.

The Fall

2010-11-11T15:32:00.000-08:00

The fall

Humiliated
I double over, stabbed
by sin's sharp blade.
Where can I hide
my shameful wound?
Let the earth swallow me.
Let the mountains fall
and bury me in rubble.

Humble
the Lord stoops down
lower than I can ever fall.
With wounded hands
He lifts me out of the dust,
Sets me upright once more.
I am enfolded in the arms
of everlasting mercy.

Eucharistic adoration

2010-11-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

- Monday, November 8, 2010 11:21 AM
In Eucharistic procession

When you are uplifted
Above your people
All eyes turn to you.

Our hands reach out to you
yearning to touch our Lord
In His sacred presence.

The priest processes by us.
For a stunning moment
I know you are passing.

I feel the wind blowing,
the spirit pouring out
your gifts to your people.

How majestic, O Lord
is your tender mercy
To those who trust in you.

From heaven you come down
to walk among your flock
bestowing your blessing.

Housekeeping

2010-11-08T08:22:00.000-08:00

Just a word of explanation about the recent lull. Life got busy, plus my laptop died. Life is still busy -- whose isn't -- but the laptop has been replaced with an iPad.

Many thanks to those who have continued to drop by. I like to let my poetry speak for itself, but I deeply appreciate the comments.

My recent poem, It's Love, is inspired by a courageous mother and child battling cancer. In your mercy, pray for them.

It's love

2010-11-07T07:25:00.000-08:00

In the hospital lights burn,
driving away the night.
A mother kneels exhausted
at her child's bedside
and bows her head in prayer.

It's love that gets us through the night.

In the garden
the son of God falls
to the ground arms outstretched,
pleading with his Father,
"Thy will be done."

It's love that gets us through the night.

Her child is dying.
Darkness has entered her soul,
hard as nails, sharp as a spear.
She cannot breathe.
Why has God forsaken her?

It's love that gets us through the night.

On the cross
Jesus bows his head, exhausted.
Darkness assails his soul.
He cannot breathe, yet he calls out,
praying to his Father.

It's love that gets us through the night.

In the depths of black despair,
hear the echo of his prayer,
"Father, into your hands ..."

It's love that gets us through the night.

Waiting

2010-11-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

Around the world
the people of God kneel.
They bend like ripe wheat
to the wind of the spirit.

From east to west
the cry rises to heaven:
Christ has died, Christ is risen,
Christ will come again.

Bend down your ear and listen--
Lord, how much longer?
The fields slumber under the sun
awaiting the trumpet blast.

All soul's day

2010-11-04T15:20:00.000-07:00

Christ our light!

we come to your altar,
Each holding a candle,
Sheltering the fragile flame,
The tiny spark of light
Recalls our loss --and hope.

Christ our light!

Loving hands set them down
--bright beacons on each step--
Rest here before the Lord
While mass is said for you,
Rest here and receive grace.

Christ our light!

When we eat this bread and
Drink this wine, we proclaim ...
The wonder of His gift,
That we are joined to Him
And you are joined to Him.

Christ our light!

Shine on then, departed.
When Christ the dayspring dawns,
Your bright beauty returns
And we can once more smile
In that unending morn.

Christ our light!

Everlasting fire

2010-10-17T15:53:00.000-07:00

Fire burns
With hungry horror
Devouring the hell-bound.
Fire burns
Bright as a beacon
Among the souls
Of purgatory
Fire burns
With divine glory
Consuming the saints
In radiant bliss.

Thoughts on a parable

2010-10-08T15:14:00.001-07:00

Once fearful I buried my small coin
and quenched the song within my heart,
but songs unsung are a bitter weight,
and gifts change to dust when left apart.

Once too bold I shouted my own tune,
for coins will spend for good or ill,
until I saw how tarnished they grew --
those few worthless coins outside His will.

Fearful still, I've opened wide this purse
for the coins you give us must be spent.
I cast them upon the wind and pray
you will bless with grace my poor intent.

At the hour of our death

2010-10-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Here on the thin cusp
between life and death
where the failing light
falls into darkness
a voice is praying
--soft and sweet and pure --
a mother watching,
guiding each child home.

Transformed by the Eucharist

2010-10-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

Like a spring surges
out of dry and barren ground
grace surges from our hearts.

Once a wall

2010-10-01T15:02:00.000-07:00

Once a wall climbed to heaven.
Again and again my prayers struck it.
Not one of them could get through.
Once a wall blocked the highway
others traveled without care.
I ran into it full tilt.
Rock solid, it would not yield.
My tears could not budge one stone.
At last, battered and bleeding
I limped away in despair.
"Why are you silent?" I asked.
"Why won't you open to me?"
The desert swallowed me up,
dry years parched with endless thirst.
Yet I caught glimpses of you
like a mirage, leading still.
You were there, you brought me through.
The wall is gone. Others walk
the path, singing out their joy.
An altar awaits me now
and you, come down to feed me.

Waiting

2010-09-30T15:11:00.000-07:00

They've put him in a box
- these ashes once my friend -
enclosed him in silence.
The mourners tears are shed.
Broken hearts have yielded
to our Lord's loving will.
Sorrowful, we shuffle off
to start our lives anew
despite the empty space.
Resting now he awaits
until the trumpet call
signals resurrection.

In memory of Marty

2010-09-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

Suddenly you are gone
stolen from us by death.
In my heart emptiness.
I grope like one struck blind
but can't find you, my friend.
Only faith can touch you.
Let me fly to the Lord.
He holds you close to Him
and thus we're together.

Eternal rest grant to him, O Lord.
Let perpetual light shine upon him.

A sorrowful mystery

2010-09-14T15:39:00.000-07:00

Did you know there are people -
consider this in sorrow -
who say the church is empty?

I hurry through open doors
and see Him in the distance,
waiting in golden splendor.
Like the doomed rush to rescue,
I rush to his resting place
and bow in adoration.
When I straighten up the air
heavy with heaven's glory
envelopes me like a cloud.

Did you know there are people -
consider this in sorrow -
who say the church is empty?

Looking around at mass

2010-09-09T14:52:00.000-07:00

Can the blind imagine what they can't see?
Can we?

People scattered among the pews,
the priest alone at the altar,
angels veiled in radiant hues,
seraphim chanting the psalter.

Can the blind imagine what they can't see?
Can we?

Candles burning with flickering light,
Statues staring with eyes of stone,
Saints in garments of brilliant white,
apostles kneeling before a throne.

Can the blind imagine what they can't see?
Can we?

The altar holds a cup, some bread,
hands extend, the words are said.
The bread becomes our living Lord,
by seen and unseen, both, adored.

Can the blind imagine what they can't see?
Can we?

Adoration

2010-09-05T09:17:00.000-07:00

Like thunder I explode
into the peaceful chapel.
No one looks up, the roar
reverberates inside me.
Shaking with its growl I drop
to my knees and lift my eyes.
You are there, silent and still,
waiting, patiently waiting.
My soul stills, too, your peace
settles upon me like warm rain,
thunder fades, the silence deepens,
from quiet depths prayer rises.

Before Morning Mass

2010-09-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

Holy water cools my brow.
In the chapel candles flicker.
Old knees bend in reverence
as people enter their pews.
They quietly kneel.
Prayer is rising to heaven
without a sound.
Light falls across the altar
where the wine and bread wait.

The Litany is done!

2010-08-29T09:07:00.000-07:00

I've finished my series of 32 poems that are meditations on the Litany of the Sacred Heart. I hope you've enjoyed them. As you may have noticed, I've created a website at Catholic Poet. (There's a permanent link to the left.) One of the reasons is so I can better organize my poems. If you go there, you'll find the Litany in order from beginning to end, which may make for a better meditative experience.

In addition, it will be easier for me to work on the poems and revise them on the website. So if you want to check on future -- hopefully improved -- versions, that's the place to go. I tend to revise as the mood strikes me, so I can't say when ... sorry!

While I'm on the subject of the Litany, I chose it because it is one of my favorite prayers, and I hope you pray it often too. You can also find it broadcast daily on EWTN -- check it out.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart -- 32

2010-08-28T07:51:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, delight of all the saints, have mercy on us ...

Stars tumble
tthrough His fingers.
Galaxies whirl
around His throne.
Angels crowd
closer, adorning.
Saints fall down
and cry "Holy!"
Listen to the saints...
The living are blind.
Their eyes are open.
The living are deaf.
Their ears hear.
The living are dumb.
Their mouths speak.
"Holy is the Lord!"

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart -- 31

2010-08-27T15:02:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, our light and resurrection, have mercy on us ...

First the dead in Christ shall rise --
this is the promise spoken --
up out of graves, from ashes,
up from the depths of the sea,
rising from the ground's grip,
rising from the watery embrace,
up into the endless sky,
above the clouds where light
blazes from the One who waits.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 30

2010-08-24T15:32:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, hope of those who die in you ... have mercy on us!

What do we hope for
when death slides over us
like cold, clear water?

What do we turn to
when the closing door leaves us
within a dark, silent room?

Who do we call on?
On one named savior,
deliverer, emmanuel.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 29

2010-08-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, salvation of those who hope in you ... have mercy on us.

Hope
the sudden spark that flares
just as you think all light has died.

Hope
the rush of fresh air
into lungs that struggle to breathe.

Hope
the upwelling of water
in the parched desert sand.

Hope
the blare of a trumpet
and an angel's cry: Maranatha!

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart -- 28

2010-08-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, victim of our sins, have mercy on us ...

These days we count the cost of sin
and look around with scornful eye,
quite forgetting to look within
we shout our creed: Did anyone die?

Jesus hung upon his cross
and made his heart a sacrifice
for He knew that we were lost
and redeemed us with His life.

Oh, I who sin and make excuse
yet live to sin another day
must turn to Him and self accuse,
must kneel before his cross and pray.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 27

2010-08-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, our peace and reconcilation, have mercy on us ...

This wicked war that drags
on through the centuries
blinds us. Like the shell-shocked
we come to accept hell
exploding around us.

Beaten down we stumble
around in pain, wounded,
half-starved, half-mad, half-dead,
staggering through the land
with ashes in our mouths.

But some see the Dayspring
rising in the darkness,
bringing us welcome peace,
destroying death with life.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 26

2010-08-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, source of all consolation, have mercy on us ...

Like a wounded child flees
to his mother's arms,
I flee, my lord, unto you.

Hold me tight.
Hold me tight,
In your embrace
all things are right.

I hide in your wounds, Lord,
in perfect peace,
with perfect protection.

Hold me close.
Hold me close.
These moments with you
matter the most.

You heal me with a touch
and send me forth--
but stay at my side.

Abide with me.
Abide with me.
There is no life
outside of Thee.

Together

2010-08-05T15:38:00.000-07:00

The mass is crowded
with saints, apostles, angels,
deity - and me.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 25

2010-08-04T09:14:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, pierced with a lance, have mercy on us ...

You died, my Jesus,
and Satan - not content -
thrust his wicked lance
deep into your side.

He saw your wounds, Lord,
and called it victory.
Your blood and water flowed
to birth the church, your bride.

Through a glass darkly

2010-08-03T16:34:00.000-07:00

The mirror stays dark.
I cannot see angel wings
beating around me.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 24

2010-08-02T16:11:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus made obedient unto death, have mercy on us ...

Everything human in us
wants to cry out "No!"
Time for the trumpet to sound,
the calvary to arrive,
time for the doctor to haul out
his miracle zapper
and fix those paddles right over
the hole in our Lord's heart.

Everything human in Him
obeyed the Father's will,
bid the angels to only watch,
yielded up his spirit,
and thus we are redeemed.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart -- 23

2010-07-31T10:24:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, bruised for our sins, have mercy on us ...

A heavy blow,
inner bleeding,
a tender spot.
Memory awakens
at the lightest touch.
We bruise your heart.
You remember us
with healing love.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart -- 22

2010-07-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus which suffered rejection for our sake, have mercy on us ...

We rejected our God,
covered his face with spit,
hit him with our fists,
struck him with a rod.

We rejected our Lord
with scornful insults,
with cruel mockery,
cutting like a sword.

We rejected our king
although he loved us still.
He prayed "Forgive"
under each sharp sting

Spontaneous prayer

2010-07-29T15:52:00.000-07:00

Spontaneous prayer
bombards heaven with my pleas.
Hurled upward, fear dies.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 21

2010-07-28T15:51:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, atonement for our sins, have mercy on us ...

Who can atone
for the evil I've done?
Sins that pile up
and blot out the sun.
In shadow I stand
mourning lost innocence.
A broken life
twisted and stripped of sense.
He stoops to heal
with gentle hands that bleed.
The holy lamb
has met my need.

Arrow Flight

2010-07-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

Like an arrow aimed
upward to the Son I fly
feathered by sweet prayer.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 20

2010-07-26T15:34:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, fountain of life and holiness, have mercy on us ...

Come and sit by the fountain,
listen to the water flow,
pure water in abundance,
for whoever will bend low --

Bend to drink this crystal water,
drink until your thirsting ends,
bend to cup it in your hands
offer refreshing to your friends.

Pass on His life with your giving
from the fountain of His side.
Wash your soul in love unstinting,
bathe in the fountain and abide.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 19

2010-07-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, generous to all who call on you, have mercy on us ...

He holds out pierced hands
palms up,extended to you,
love overflowing.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 18

2010-07-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus patient and abounding in mercy, have mercy on us ...

Patience -
to sit through lonely nights
to hold a trembling hand
to bend your head to listen
-simple human kindness

Mercy -
to bind up the wounded
to feed the starving
to forgive the humble sinner
- simple human loving

Patience -
to call a sinner home
every day, every hour, every moment
of a cruel, evil life
- holy, divine kindness

Mercy -
to hear their muttered prayer
spoken with their last breath
and grant them grace
-- holy, divine loving

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 17

2010-07-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, deepest desire of the human heart, have mercy on us ...

Some say they long for shining gold,
some want beauty's kiss,
health is precious to the old,
and drugs provide deceptive bliss.

All the gifts that life can offer
and our hearts are empty still.
Earth has nothing it can proffer,
no magic wand, no miracle pill.

For our hearts are ever breaking
without the balm that He provides.
Only love can ease the aching,
perfect love where Christ abides.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 16

2010-07-18T08:41:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus whose fullness we have all received, have mercy on us ...

All created things long to be filled -
the depths of the Earth drink rain and become oceans,
air settles between the mountains and spills above, enveloping the world,
stars spin out from the center, fleeing across space to fill infinity -
Only the human soul stayed empty -
until You came, precious Lord.

Interlude

2010-07-17T09:07:00.000-07:00

Hello! "Interlude" is that rare occasion when I may have a comment to make. Mostly, the poems speak for themselves. I'm about halfway through the Litany of the Sacred Heart, one of my favorite prayers. I view the poems as a meditation on the litany. All the poems on this site are more or less first drafts -- it's the Internet version of the journal I used to keep -- so I don't consider any of them are finished. If and when I come back to a poem, I may well rewrite it beyond recognition. In the meantime, if one speaks to you, feel free to copy it for your personal use. And thanks for visiting!

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart -15

2010-07-14T15:57:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, in which the Father is well pleased, have mercy on us ...

Pearl of greatest price,
perfection beyond compare,
haven of the homeless,
listener to our prayer.

Flawless source of truth,
healer of our pains,
shepherd of our souls,
king who ever reigns.

Praises sung forever
and yet scarce begun,
could not yet express
the beauty of the Son.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 14

2010-07-13T16:57:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus in which dwells all the fullness of the Godhead, have mercy on us ...

A gentle human heart
A sacred love divine -
undreamed of purest mixture,
O heavenly, precious wine.

My thirsty soul drinks deep
from a cup that's ever full.
His open side feeds
His people here below.

No hunger can surpass
His grace beyond compare.
His fullness fills us up
and gives us peace to share.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 13

2010-07-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus in which are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, have mercy on us ...

In ancient tales winged dragons guard their gold
and threaten with flame any who dare take hold.

Pirates in their cruel ships steal upon the sea,
and drown their victims without sympathy.

Kings hoard their treasures with wanton greed
and deny even the food their people need.

Jesus enthroned in heaven opens wide his embrace
and from his heart true treasure pours in endless grace.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 12

2010-07-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, king and center of all hearts, have mercy on us ...

You are the center, the king of kings.
Creation flows from your throne,
angels gaze on you in wonder,
the saints fall down before you,
even demons kneel at your feet,
folding their proud wings.

Journey north, south, east or west.
Nowhere will you find
what you seek until
you turn, return, go back to Him
and like the Beloved Disciple,
lay your head upon his breast.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 11

2010-07-08T15:32:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, worthy of all praise, have mercy on us ...

Sing a soaring song,
Pray a perfect prayer,
give your heart to the One
who heals our every care.

Whisper low His praises,
Shout them to the sky,
Proclaim the glory of our King
who ever reigns on high.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 10

2010-07-07T15:27:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, never-ending source of all virtues, have mercy on us ...

Like a mighty flood
sweeping all before it,
your torrential virtue pours
into my empty heart -
sweet waters of blessing,
pure streams of your love,
grace for another start.

Reflections on the Litary of the Sacred Heart - 9

2010-07-06T12:14:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, vessel of justice and love, have mercy on us ...

Justice and love fought with each other,
for one was stern, the other mild.
When the guilty came before them,
justice frowned and love just smiled.

Justice spoke for the downtrodden,
love for those who mercy need.
What is one without the other?
Their quarrel before God's throne they plead.

God poured them in a precious vessel
where they joined in sweet embrace.
Justice and love kissed each other,
and became the balm of grace.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 8

2010-07-05T09:04:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, burning furnace of charity, have mercy on us ...

Light a candle in the night.
Light a flame upon the hearth.
Light the torches in parade.
Spread your light over all the Earth.

Let the oceans boil with heat.
Let volcanoes belch out flame.
Let our proudest towers burn.
Let the cities melt in shame.

See the stars like diamonds blaze.
See the galaxies explode.
See the universe consumed
'til all is fire and all is sowed.

But a single spark, it falls
into the light of infinity.
Burning angels cry out "Holy!"
All on fire with love comes to Thee.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 7

2010-07-04T05:56:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, house of God and gate of heaven, have mercy on us ...

Come, the gate has opened wide.
Such a heart has room for all.
Here's the home so long desired.
Say a prayer and pass inside.

Come, the gate is barred for none.
Call your family, call your foe,
bid them join you in new life,
bid them seek God's only son.

Look beyond the gate where they
stand and pray and wait for you--
all you loved and thought you lost
lies but one strong step away.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 6

2010-07-03T08:22:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, tabernacle of the Most High, have mercy on us ...

Moving God --
You hurled the stars into the void.
You sent the sun soaring through the depths of space
and set each world spinning in its place.

Moving God --
You poured out the ocean, never to be still.
You raised the mountains up to pierce the sky,
You bid the wind to blow and rivers flow.

Moving God --
You gave us hearts that beat with endless longing,
a soul that ever searches, never done,
until at last we find You in the heart of your Son.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 5

2010-07-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, holy temple of God, have mercy on us ...

Here in the shadowed silence
the Lord sit and listens.
Here the restless feel peace enfold
the seething turmoil of their soul.

Here is the altar ever ready
to receive your sacrifice.
A contrite heart pleases Him,
a whispered prayer cleanses sin.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 4

2010-07-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus of infinite majesty, have mercy on us ...

In blackest space new stars take flight
and with their light blazing bright,
worship His majesty.

The flaming sun returns each day
and grateful hearts in wonder say,
worship His majesty.

Cloud-crowned mountains pierce the sky,
down their slopes the echoes cry,
worship His majesty.

At mass each day the faithful come,
to pledge their love to the Son,
worship His majesty.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart 3

2010-06-27T08:29:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, wonderfully united to the eternal Word, have mercy on us ...

At His command the angels woke to sing
their hymns of praise, which mounted up
until the stars burst into flame.
Then down from heaven's throne He came.

The Word of God, eternal Son, goes forth
to do his Father's will on Earth.
His fingers mold the lifeless dust.
He breathes one breath, the rest is trust.

Trust while the years roll ever past,
trust until the Virgin says amen,
and then the Word descends again.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart 2

2010-06-26T08:18:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, formed by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the Virgin mother, have mercy on us ...

Behold the handmaid of the Lord.
With her consent, the Spirit enters.
The Word descends, obedient to the Father.
The Spirit hovers, joining them.
In this sacred place it starts.
The eternal takes on humanity.
Suddenly there beat two hearts.

Reflections on the Litany of the Sacred Heart - 1

2010-06-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

Heart of Jesus, son of the Eternal Father, have mercy on us...

Eternal Father,
Eternal Son,
In perfect love,
forever one.

Eternal Father,
Eternal Son,
work together
'til all is done.

Eternal Father,
Eternal Son,
a life given,
a victory won.

The Coronation of the Blessed Virgin

2010-06-20T09:16:00.000-07:00

Gentle mother, come and sit
upon this throne at my right hand.
Wear the crown I've made for you,
become the queen of every land.

Beloved son, I'll do your will,
but grant one favor, this I pray -
let me leave my throne that I
may guide my children on their way.

Gentle mother, wise and true,
I'll grant you this request
if you will help them be like you,
so gentle, pure and blessed.

The assumption of the Blessed Virgin

2010-06-19T09:03:00.000-07:00

Upward from the Earth she came
and awestruck angels whispered her name.
Welcome, Mary, heaven's queen.

Rejoicing souls who'd waited long
to enter heaven joined in the song.
Welcome, Mary, heaven's queen.

Adam and Eve with eyes downcast
greeted the virgin unsurpassed.
Welcome, Mary, heaven's queen.

Prophets, kings and saints of old
rejoiced her victory to behold.
Welcome, Mary, heaven's queen.

While millions sang, she saw but one,
her gaze stayed on her own dear son.
Welcome, Mary, heaven's queen.

The descent of the Holy Spirit

2010-06-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

I've watched a baby's eyes widen
when you come at baptism
to cleanse.

I've watched a grown man weep
when you come in baptism
to fill.

They say you came the first time
in the roar of wind and fire
at Pentecost.

To me, you came in the touch
of a gentle hand and sweet oil
to anoint.

The Ascension

2010-06-17T15:56:00.000-07:00

Don't leave us - our heart cry -
stay today, tomorrow,
forever for we can't see
what lies beyond the sky.

You bless us and you go,
rising into the clouds -
vanished - we're left alone,
your children lost below.

No, you promised to be
with your people always.
I received you today -
my lord - on bended knee.

The resurrection

2010-06-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

Out of the darkness comes
A glimmering hint of dawn.
The watchmen at the tomb
see it and take hope.

This long night will finally end.

Whose heart doesn't lift
at the coming of the light?
Yet the greatest dawn of all
was hidden in a tomb.

This long night will finally end.

Did the angels watch hushed?
Did the souls in limbo weep
with joy to see his victory?
He rises and life no longer dies.

This long night will finally end.

The Crucifixion

2010-06-12T07:47:00.000-07:00

He hangs alone
stripped of all he had,
naked and vulnerable.
I am an offering.

A crown of thorns,
a body pierced and torn,
still he thirsts for souls.
I am an offering.

Avenging angels wait
for his command.
Instead he speaks forgiveness.
I am an offering.

Death, forever hungry,
leaps at the prize
and eternal life begins.
I am an offering.

The carrying of the cross

2010-06-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

Kings, queens and fishermen,
each one carries a cross,
and staggers on a weary road
of battles won or lost.

And when we climb the hill
and gaze into the night,
the mourners don their robes
and cowards shake in fright.

Lord, wither can we go
to flee our certain fate?
Your cross a refuge sure
for those who pray and wait.

The crowning with thorns

2010-06-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

A king's crown should be made
of flashing gems, of purest gold,
bright as angel's wings,
stupendous to behold.

They wove his crown of thorns,
prickly as the human heart,
the rose turned hard and cold,
creation ripped apart.

The garden we destroyed,
the mockery borne in our stead,
the torture of our fall,
came down upon his head.

The scourging at the pillar

2010-06-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

The soldier grunts
and swings the lash
with the cruel strength
of those who hate.

Why have you, why have you deserved this fate?

His comrades jeer
and mock and count
each cutting blow
with vicious glee.

What have I, what have I done to thee?

His blood splatters
upon the ground,
the soldier's face,
the ancient stones.

Is this how, is this how the lamb atones?

The agony in the garden

2010-06-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

A tranquil garden,
the wind fragrant with flowers,
the vines groaning with fruit,
bird-song mingling with the laughter
of a man, a woman and a snake.

A rocky garden,
the wind heavy with a city's stink,
the vines shriveled and dry.
A man kneels beneath a gnarled tree,
whispering a prayer.

Death came despite the beauty.
Life came from His agony.

The Institution of the Eucharist

2010-06-06T07:42:00.001-07:00

Families
joined by body
joined by blood
sit together at table.

At this table
His body joins us,
His blood unites us
together at His table.

The Transfiguration

2010-06-05T08:32:00.000-07:00

What is hidden shall be revealed, says the Lord.

He kneels in prayer.
Light breaks over his skin,
shattering the darkness,
a new dawn blazing
on the mountaintop,
humanity engulfed
in a cloud of glory.
His eyes are shining stars,
The anointing of God
glistens in his hair.
Healing pulses flame-bright
between his hands,
His face a blinding sun,
transfigured.

When we see Him, we shall be like Him,
says the Lord.

The proclamation of the kingdom

2010-06-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

Listen, all peoples, and be glad
in the dark depths of the night.
You begged for an audience with God.
The Father sends you his delight.

He walks among you to touch.
He walks among you to teach.
He walks among you to heal.
Listen to the Word that's preached.

Sit on the hills to hear Him.
Sit by the seaside to pray.
Stand in the crowds to touch Him.
Stay with him, O never stray.

The marriage feast at Cana

2010-06-03T07:57:00.000-07:00

All around her people --
laughing
dancing
eating
drinking,
lost in their own pleasures.

She alone looks to see
the wine
vessels
nearly
empty
and goes to her son.

"Do as He tells you."
Simple
words
to draw
his grace.
Water turns to wine.

The baptism in the Jordan

2010-06-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

Down into the water
we go, one by one
following our Lord,
who went before us
as our example.

Water engulfing us,
water drowning us,
until we die
and rise anew
as He rose before us.

The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

2010-06-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

Lost, the joy of my heart,
The world now looms so large
I need you at my side.
How can I live apart?

The Lord is in His holy Temple,
let all the Earth keep silence before him.

I run from place to place,
I search the tents and roads,
I seek only one thing,
a glimpse of your dear face.

The Lord is in His holy Temple,

let all the Earth keep silence before him.

The city holds no peace,

Jerusalem -- a lie--

as day gives way to night,

my search will never cease.

The Lord is in His holy Temple,

let all the Earth keep silence before him.

Until I lift my gaze

unto the Temple height

where you are, teaching truth,

and where you are always.

The Lord is in His holy Temple,

let all the Earth keep silence before him.

Keep silence,

keep silence,

keep silence before him.