He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. – Psalm 91:1

Face to face, this man God knew

In cherished ways, though known by few

With gaudy epochs long since passed

‘Ere this old man, to God had asked—

“Your face, pure glory, let me see

In ways, hid from humanity.

Bushes burned and seas split wide

Stony water from its side

Such miracles, I’ve seen them all

And none compel my soul to call

Upon this latent God He be

As could a glimpse of glory see.”

Then God, so vicious, yet benign

Chock full in glory, light Divine

Stooped low—He placed this fallen man

Into a rocky cleft to stand. Continue reading →

The outcast came at noon. The time

When noses high and looks sublime

Shaped the sneering maiden faces

Who, deep down, with hidden traces

Knew this shameful wretch was no worse

Than they. The husbands they would curse

At home could vouch: “If only walls

Could talk”, they’d tell the sins—the calls—

Of scorn and disregard they’d spew

At the harlot, thrice wed, plus two.

All this to shield their crimes and doubt

“Will my own transgressions come out?”

It’s noon. She’s all alone—though eyes

Piercing a dozen drapes—belies

Her movements at the village well

Are concealed. “Drink, please.” The words fell

From the Man who reached the spring just

As she—learning later He must

Have been there at just that moment,

For Providence guides the One sent

To bestow living water to

Thirsty souls. “How can you, a Jew,

Solicit me for anything,

And risk the shame that this would bring?”

(John 4:1-9)