August 18–24 ❘ Not by Constraint

Not by Constraint

To me, the weakest of saints
with little judgment or skill,
is given a word of wisdom

adapted to my capacity—
though I find it hard to self-regulate
and too often try to fill deep emptiness

with something solid,
as though a temporal repast
could stick to spiritual ribs.

When the world entices me
to partake of its delicious, desirable
lies not meant for body or belly,

the Lord says I am free
to see temptation as a clarifying offer,
and choose to leave the Destroyer’s fare
on the table.

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