Creation waits

Children of God

For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God.                Romans 8:19

Children of God,

can you hear the groaning

of the ocean as you walk its shore?

The seas that roar with the burden of carried waste,

oil slicks, plastic bags, heavy metal poisons;

moaning for the many,

the fish and cetaceans

that no longer swim and dive.

Children of God,

do you feel the sighing

of invisible forests as you place

your footprints upon earth?

The fallen giants of past ages,

rotting, green moss and lichen life-filled

lost places of renewal and shelter

for once countless birds, lizards

frogs and insects.

Children of God,

will you smell the choking sadness

of the air as you take it deep into your lungs?

Sky darkened by smoke and dust,

rain made acid by careless chemicals,

seasons warmed beyond nature

threatening the homes of many

good creatures.

Children of God,

can you taste the fearful horror

and salty bitter tears

of war and bombs and guns?

Buildings and countries torn apart,

along with bodies, children,

hearts and trust.

Children of God,

do you see the weak and flickering

candle-flame of creation waiting?

Here you will find your part,

along with freedom, promise,

and hope.

Ken Rookes