Paper Plate

 

I am a paper plate

To bear the bread of Life;

I am the ass that walks

Through the crowd’s palm-scattered strife.

 

I am the song He sings

Through lips that are fumble-dumb;

When He would feed the world

I am a tiny crumb.

 

Make me a burning bush

Though I am sore afraid.

You are the tongue of flame

I am the dead wood laid.

 

You who can unmake worlds

Let me show forth your light

Even in this small space

Glowing in self’s despite.

 

Though I in silence stand

Let all I say and do

Sing of the love I’ve found

Sing what is truly true.

 

Here at the cross’s foot

Here all is holy ground

Here where God meets with man,

Here is your mercy crowned.