Annunciation 3

The angel brings a lily.

What does she need of this,

When Gabriel’s words shall hurl her

Into a strange abyss?

The angel brings a lily

And brings a word so vast

This step is the beginning,

It shall not be the last.

The angel brings a lily,

Its scent is sweet and strong,

And thoughts and dreams and wonders

Surround her in a throng.

The angel brings a lily

Though frosts still grip the ground.

For only in bright heaven

Is such a flower found.

The angel brings a lily

More white than the new snow

Purer than her heart’s yearning,

For anything below.

The angel brings a lily

Can she decline such gift?

When the world’s hope is offered,

She answers clean and swift.

The angel brings a lily

And in that moment’s span

She glimpses the great marvel

Of God becoming man.

The angel brings a lily

As fresh as morning air;

Her faith borne up like eagles

She bows her head to dare.

The angel brings a lily

She is the chosen one.

She marvels, all-consenting,

The mother of God’s Son.