August 14th

“For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45

you don’t want us
to build you another
multi-million ballroom,
but will accept every shelter
for families sleeping rough.
you aren’t offering corner
offices to those who follow,
but corners to inhabit while
working for justice.
you go to the local thrift store
to trade in the robes of glory
for a couple of ratty dish towels
and a dented metal bowl, so
you can baptize the feet
of everyone who will run away.
you aren’t calling folks
who will eagerly nod ‘yes’
but those who have the
courage to say no to pride
as you give away yourself
time and time again, until
only love remained

© 2025 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman