THEOPHANY: I Thirst

I’m not worthy.

To quench is my fate.

THIRST

All can relate.

Before Eden thou wast; even before the flood.

I parted for Thy people at the behest of Moses, Thy chosen one.

I’ve whetted e’ery path man’s trod; every field he’s plo’d.

At Thy command I came to be; my rest shall be in Thee.

Tell me Lord, what brings Thee to me? I’m not worthy,

I must confess.

Me? I cleanse from sweat, dirt, sand, and disease.

Washed away are cares and burdens — the soot of the day —

in my waves.

John calls forth the people.

In their salvation I participate.

Yet, to Thee, how can I relate?

For without, I’d not be.

Jest it seems!

Agent of cleansing feels dirty in the presence of the King.

Cleanse me, O Lord, that I may be worthy of Thee.

THIRST

I am water.

I lack nothing but Thee.

At Thy baptism, O Lord, Thou hast found me worthy.

Quenching, cleansing:

paths, fields, people,

salvation;

I

shall ne’er be the same.

Come Lord Jesus,

cleanse Thou me!