The Same at Dawn and Dusk

We want to be inspired- and for the inspiration to last. 
We want to accomplish, finish, straighten, organize.
We want to be comfortable, secure, at peace, and loved.
We want to have extraordinary trust and faith.
We want our lives to be honorable, noteworthy.

and isn’t it clear?

We want to earn it-
To see the fruit of our sweaty brows.

If all the inspirational songs cease,
all the to-do lists remain unchecked,
all the hours of the day slip away from us-

What then?
What will be left?

Our Shepherd,

Teach us to work and rest-
as if we having nothing to gain, and nothing to lose.
Teach us to marvel and praise-
for we are loved the same at dawn and dusk.
Teach us to rely and trust-
as a child who works not, yet feasts anyway.

You are leading us.
to fields that are surely green,
to streams that are surely quiet.
And surely, goodness and mercy shall follow us forever and ever.

Amen.