The Womb

with many parts being shaped

in the shades and shadows of the earth.

Eyes are being formed that have seen

the shades of the day.

I have seen the shadow of a man

who preached the Word on Sunday,

and I have seen a diamond shine

in the shadow of a starless night.

My heart is being shaped

by the many colors of the world.

The soft yellows and greens of the earth

have given me a generous heart

while the steely blues of loss and poverty

have made me compassionate toward friends.

Arms are being formed in the fullness of the sun

that can hold a hurting friend to my breast

like God held me when I was stricken

and in a prison for the sick.

Knees are being formed when I pray

while light and darkness crisscross my bed.

Hands and fingers are being formed

in white shadows for service

because I have found hope

in the many works of Jesus Christ.

Soon

my fingers shall serve a breathing Christ

when I am born

with much pain

from this womb

into the kingdom of God.