Simeon

I’m old.
I admit it,
but I’m not past it
like some people will try to tell you.
They think I don’t know
what they are saying;
whispering
behind my back.
It used to hurt
but now
I ignore them.
Sometimes
I am tired of life.
Everything takes so much
longer.
Everything seems to be
harder.
But
these are only moments.
Life
is for living.
And there are still things
I want to do,
and see.

One thing in particular
I must see
before I die.
And I will see
because
God has promised.
And God always keeps
His promises.
that I know.
It could even be
today.
I have this feeling
inside
that I must go
to the Temple courts.
I know this feeling
I have felt it many times.
It’s when
God is speaking
to me.
So many times
He has done this
over the years.
So many times.

I must set out now.
It will take me a while
to get there.
I wish I could move quickly,
as I used to.
My mind tells me to
but my body won’t respond.
Never mind.
God will wait
until I arrive.

I’ve seen them!
The parents,
bringing Him!
I know this is the One.
He doesn’t look
any different
from all the other babies
but I know.
I will go over to them
and speak to them.
I will ask
if I can hold Him.
Oh, how I want
to hold Him;
this Child;
this precious gift
of God.

They have handed
Him
to me.
I can’t describe how I feel.
the privilege;
the honour;
the joy.
Thank you, Lord.


Now I have seen
Your salvation,
Your light,
Your glory.
And not only seen.
You have allowed me
to touch,
to hold,
to bless
Your Child.
I can’t know any joy
greater than this.
But
why Lord?
Why do I feel
a strange sadness?
A pain like a thorn in my head?
It can’t be my death
that is causing me this sadness.
I am ready to come to you.
No.
It is for this Child
Isn’t it, Lord?

They are so happy, Lord,
this little family.
How can I tell them?
How can I
warn her,
protect her,
shield her?

Lord, give me the right
words to say
to bless them.



© Kathleen Wilks