Belonging, not belonging

Haiku for strangers

You gave them to me,

companions on the journey

towards the kingdom.

I made your name known.

They listened, learning from me,

and keeping your word.

They know that it all

has come from you; ev’rything

that I gave to them.

The hour comes soon

when I can’t be here for them,

to keep my friends safe.

Although I must go,

The world shall remain their home.

Father, protect them.

The world is hostile

to those who are of the truth,

those who don’t belong.

Never my true home,

now my friends are strangers too;

eyes fixed on God’s word.

Here they must remain,

it is here love’s work goes on,

my joy made complete.

They know you sent me.

As I was sent to the world

I am sending them.

© Ken Rookes 2018

Salt and light

A haiku sequence

You are salt and light.

Salt to enhance life's flavours.

Light to dispel fear.

Be salt to your friends

and salt to those who struggle.

Affirm their living.

Darkness encroaches,

threatens what is good and true.

Rage against the night.

Shine incandescent:

glowing is your heritage.

You are light, shine on.

Shine on with your love,

bring hope to the ones who weep,

illuminate them.

Go out of your way

to bring light to dark places.

They're waiting for you.

Be salt and be light.

This is your divine calling

as children of God.

© Ken Rookes 2017