September 26th

“’When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard because of their many words.’” Matthew 6:7

prayers are not rungs
in a ladder to allow us
to get closer to you.
we do not need to string
syllables together like garlands
on an old-fashioned Christmas tree
so you might pay more attention.
in those slow treads
down hospital corridors,
in the gently falling tears
on the face of a sick child,
in the gentle conversation
at tables in a shelter,
in that soft pause between
breaths that we take,
in that worn-out whisper,
‘i need help’
we find you listening closely
to each breath
to each word
to each tear
to each step
as you cradle us
in your grace.

(c) 2025 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman