In this Easter poem, Eric Massanari uses biblical allusions to greet the risen one. This poem was originally published in the April 17, 2023 Pacific Northwest Mennonite Conference bulletin. Reposted with permission. Read it in Spanish here.
Eric Massanari serves as the executive conference minister for the Pacific Northwest Mennonite Conference of Mennonite Church USA. He is also a trained spiritual director and is currently serving on the board for Spiritual Directors International (SDI). Eric lives in Bellingham, Washington, with his wife, Yolanda Kauffman, and he actively participates in the Seattle (Washington) Mennonite Church and Community of Hope, Bellingham, Washington, congregations.
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O Risen One,
I arise this day and welcome
the light that awakens and
the breath that sustains.
Thank you for the restful darkness,
and for the healing dreamtime.
I pray that I will meet you this day,
and even more, that I will be
awake to each encounter.
May you roll back the stony barriers of
my fear, resistance and presumption.
May you illumine the shadowed tombs
of my blame, shame and guilt.
May I hear you when you lovingly
call me by my true names.
May I recognize you when you appear in
the guise of friend, stranger, and adversary.
May I sense you when I am quiet
and aware of my own heart.
May I taste you as I break the bread of life.
I arise this day and welcome
the light that awakens and
the breath that sustains.
Amen.
The views and opinions expressed in this blog belong to the author and are not intended to represent the views of the MC USA Executive Board or staff.
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