Prayer Shawl

Prayer Shawl

            Acts 16.13-15

 

Active hands, eyes given to a project of countless knots,

A color or collage pleasing, filled with creative love.

Time bent into rhythms of joy, grace flowing freely not in clots.

This garment created for use in daily need, from heaven above.

 

Mystical forces accompany these knitted, quilted outbursts.

Faithful makers most often have no clue for whom ‘tis meant.

Into the embrace of Spirit who directs its path into situations worst.

Many hands, much prayer, a blessing at each touch, miracle sent.

 

Life meets each day with a challenge, a resource too.

Human kindness extends its reach but cannot ever be near.

Each person raises hands to the heavens, seeking respite true.

Physical dilemma, emotional pains many, often caught in fear.

 

A parable of the mercy and manifest of God, the shawl gathers stitches.

Each set in its holding place, a kindly thought, a healing touch felt.

The gift of life comes one beat at a time from Creator’s riches.

Every living thing, every created element in the Plan, a place dealt.

 

Chaplain, deaconess, pastor arrives to hold a hand, to pray.

Patient, parishioner, neighbor in need receives their care.

Conversation proceeds along, needs unpacked in their way.

Clearly this blessed moment will not be enough for healing fair.

 

“What might be your favorite color? Could you tell me true?”

Softened eyes gaze up, “Why I do believe ‘tis spring sky pink.”

“Will you be going anywhere soon? I’ll be back in a few.”

Spirit smiles with joyful anticipation, as the exact shawl does link.

 

Shawls, quilts find their homes surely as sun and moon rise.

As definite as a kiss between friends and lovers;

Burdens borne one moment at time, this is no surprise.

Heart touches, spirit lifts fabrics of mercy become covers.

 

Blessed are the Dorcas’s who follow their bliss each day.

Blessed are the servants who respond to needs open, freely.

Blessed are the courageous, voicing their suffering on the way.

Blessed be our loving Triune God, whose mercy abounds, really!

 

The Rev. Ronald Allen Melver, M.Div.

30.4.13