Proper 17
Poems
A GOSPEL TREASURY
Poems Based on Lectionary Gospels
Lord, there are times you threaten me
as I think what you know
of what goes on inside of me
when I am high or low.
When I am seething deep inside
but on the surface, calm,
my smile can fool most every one.
With them, I have no qualm.
With them, it’s easy to conceal
what’s happening within.
But you know all my cussedness
and all my secret sin.
It’s pretty hard to realize
that you know more of me
than I will know about myself
until eternity.
You know all my hypocrisies.
You’re quick to point them out.
But, when you do, I’m grateful
that you whisper. You don’t shout.
Let’s keep it confidential, Lord.
If everybody knew
the things you know about me,
then my friends would number few.
So please be patient with me, Lord.
and give me many days
with hope that somehow I’ll improve
and follow in your ways.
And please, Lord, as you judge each day,
just don’t let me forget
that I’m still incomplete, ’cause
you aren’t finished with me yet.
as I think what you know
of what goes on inside of me
when I am high or low.
When I am seething deep inside
but on the surface, calm,
my smile can fool most every one.
With them, I have no qualm.
With them, it’s easy to conceal
what’s happening within.
But you know all my cussedness
and all my secret sin.
It’s pretty hard to realize
that you know more of me
than I will know about myself
until eternity.
You know all my hypocrisies.
You’re quick to point them out.
But, when you do, I’m grateful
that you whisper. You don’t shout.
Let’s keep it confidential, Lord.
If everybody knew
the things you know about me,
then my friends would number few.
So please be patient with me, Lord.
and give me many days
with hope that somehow I’ll improve
and follow in your ways.
And please, Lord, as you judge each day,
just don’t let me forget
that I’m still incomplete, ’cause
you aren’t finished with me yet.
