John 10:9

My shepherd has eaten his bread and drunk his wine.

The others are standing, sitting silent in the night.

Drifting cloud and sentry stars settle in their places,

then he lays down his life from stone to stone

leaving no opening for bared teeth or wisp of lie

to suddenly be among us in the fold.

The door-with-skin-on breathes security.

My little hooves mince sideways,

sidling up to that back.

Fireglow out, the body pulses warmth

And carefully, with years of breatholding desire,

intense anticipation focusing every muscle,

my wooliness touches the Presence

and folding up my legs I sink down,

rest content

nestled by my Lord.

12-28-01 pcraig