A girl comes to Christ by Fritz von Uhde via Wikimedia Commons
You enfold me, entwine and embrace me.
You handle me, hold me and hide me.
You wrestle me, welcome and want me.
Your chin by my ear, your hand in my hair,
your arm ’round my back, my arms rounding you,
my face on your chest: I’m held in your warmth.
Your eyes keep close watch, mine close in deep peace.
Your fingers stroke softly my head’s numbered strands.
Your grip is a gift, your grasp saving grace.
You whisper,
“You’re mine, I call you by name:
you’re found and forgiven, brought home and beloved.”
I breathe,
“Yes, I am, shaped and healed by your hand.
You call me by name: I am yours, you are mine.”
Amen.
Fr. Austin Fleming, Roman Catholic Priest in Concord, MA
___________________
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.
prayer & verse 
