Jonah, whose name means dove,

why do you run from redemption?

why are you gutted like a maggot-eaten vine,

hollowed out from within by resentment?

By gentle insistence free me; 

speak, ancient Maker; word by tender word 

defy my own cruel worries; 

In your Love I shall find release

from this suffocating birdlime inside me; 

as your work-worn hands lift me,

trim me, choose me, shift me

into place, I begin to believe

I could be made just the way I am to fit

where you need me, to play a part in something,

Descend upon us now!   

By the warmth of your life giving presence, grow in our hearts  

the same anticipation and delight by which all that was made 

rejoiced to hear itself named and sprang forth to participate 

in the dance of creation; 

Speak, beloved Jesus;

draw out our thorn-guarded hearts;

by your own heart’s kindness

coax roses from us.

Let us walk together
Upon the earth of God!
Let us dance arm in arm!

You set sweets of honey and ripe fruit before me,
You said “Taste and see that I am good”

I have been so afraid
That there would not be enough;