painting by Mandy Budan

Be to me as the sun, and not the moon, dear Lord.

I may gaze on the moon as I am, unmediated.
But it is cold and distant and small.

I need a God who blinds me, as Saul
Who parches and melts and purifies my human strength.

Then like Paul’s, perfect my eyes, Jesus Savior
To see your love and grace and glory, in Your strength.

Spirit, in all my actions I need your piercing fire
To penetrate, surround, and brighten me for yourself.

Never may I hide in my soul’s dark rooms
To think and move and feel by my own reason.

Be to me as the sun, your beauty to my face, my Father,
For from you come whiteness, greenness, and sunsets,

Glorious one.