June 6th

“Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture, but you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pasture? When you drink of clear water, must you foul the rest with your feet? And must my sheep eat what you have trodden with your feet, and drink what you have fouled with your feet?” Ezekiel 34:18-19

we pull on our wellies
trampling on all grace
leaves behind.
yes, the pasture is deep and wide
yet we are determined to muck it up
with our mud-coated, narcissistic feet.
we are handed that cool drink
from mercy’s deep waters
and then toss the litter
from our picnic in the well.
whisper, Shepherd of our hearts,
so we remember how guilty
we are leaving only crumbs
from your table, for the least.
Gatherer of scattered sheep
sift our souls of our greed,
loosen our grip on our blessings,
and remind us of the burdens
we leave behind for others
to clear up from our journey.

© 2025 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman