The desert and the parched land will exult; the arid plains will rejoice and bloom; they will bloom with flowers and rejoice with joyful song.
-Isaiah 35:1 (From the lectionary for Advent)
Some days my soul’s a desert, Lord:
parched, lifeless and thirsting
for waters of mercy, peace and joy…
But even deserts dare to hope for a day
when graceful waters flood the plains
and barren lands bloom, a sweet oasis
of your presence…
Visit my heart’s desert, Lord:
flood my soul with rivers of your grace:
shade me ‘neath your outstretched arms and
bring to flower all that waits within me…
Even today, Lord, quench my thirst
with a sip of your grace,
and open my lips
with a song of joyful praise…
Amen.
