Evensong

All sainted and scented

in the grey alcove

I kneeled hunched

and hunkered down

White and blacked robed

a ribbon hanging crucifix

fanning the thurible fire

hot coals of the earth

and heaven’s endless echo

Silent smoke and words spoke

my heart rising

among the russet leaves falling down

I drink the waters of Meribah

witness the sign of Jonah

and climb the Zacchaeus tree

feeling the mercy strife

and uttered moans

Not of my own

but His Word

in even song