by Ken Sehested
In the face of endless aggrievement and obstinate bereavement, despite hope-contempting fear on display in every mother’s tear,
Let us go, let us go to the hallowed abode of the One who brings solace and cheer.
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, where Abraham’s children contend; pray, too, for the peace of Asheville*, each fracture and failure amend.
I was glad when they said unto me: Let us go to the house of earth’s pardoning decree.
“I will seek your good” is the Blessed One’s word to be uttered and anchored in covenant guaranty.
Speak peace to the nation, to every relation, to each hollow and meadow, every inch of creation. Let mercy defend, and gracefully mend; each stranger, each straggler, welcome and befriend.