Different Routes – Same Destination

Sometimes we are compelled to seek Grace or Mercy for different reasons. Sometimes we are driven by guilt or shame; sometimes we are drawn by gratitude or joy. Different routes – same destination.

At The Altar

Two people knelt at the altar today,
unknown companions, each seeking a way
to encounter life's Author, to know without doubt
the fullness of God, what life is about.
Shoulder to shoulder, on their knees in prayer,
sharing the feelings of delight and despair.

They came to this moment by such different ways,
compelled to hear the voice of God say:
You are loved, my child; you belong to me,
and in this moment you each shall be
held in mercy's affirming hand,
renewed in strength so that you may stand

unafraid, unashamed, two daughters of Light
awakened to see with spiritual sight
the Mystery that surrounds you day after day,
to know the joy of work and play
in the garden of Grace, your home in my heart,
the place where nothing can keep us apart.

Two women learned a lesson that day.
Some people are driven by guilt and shame,
some drawn by Love's undying flame
to find the Source of life's common claim.
Driven, drawn both compelled toward the Light
where they rise from the altar with sacred sight

to see themselves, newly blessed by Grace
seen in the light of each other's face.
Many roads compel, gratitude or shame,
but the reasons dissolve at the sound of his name.
In Him, through Him, with Him is found
our common quest, Love's sacred ground.