a poem for my brother

often times during prayer, while listening to the voice of truth, poetic words will begin to stir and take shape. one of the greatest examples, in my opinion, of a devout poet and intercessor is st. john of the cross. his meditative poems allure me into a deeper realm of hearing the whisper of love, grace, and mercy. this morning as i sat in silence, words for a brother of mine spilled onto the pages of my prayer journal. so, for you my brother and friend, a poem.

break down dear brother

those sturdy walls

of introspection.

pick up the sword

of the Spirit

and slice the darkness

that holds you captive.

turn your ear beloved son

from the voices

you ask to give you worth.

search, keep searching

for the sound of silence.

there you will find

the still, small whisper

of the One who gives you name.

rise up mighty friend

keep your lamp burning

with the fragranted oil

of worship

be ready for the presence

of your Creator, the One

who fashioned you with 

strength and honor.

rend your heart o brother

and bend your knee

to your Holy Father.

focus your gaze

and take your seat

at the right hand

of the King

in the throne-room of Grace.

listen! can you hear

the silence...

"beloved son"

echoes from the walls of 

the dwelling place you seek

shouts of proclamation welcome

you in...

"with whom i love".