Through these days, God, we bear you

This week, a poem, inspired by “Freight” by Rev. Steve Garnaas-Holmes. (Please read the original before my humble parody. Steve, my gratitude and apologies.)

As the baker carries bread trays of apple pies—

still warm and smelling of cinnamon —into the church narthex

as the vendors weave through a new layout,

with van loads of precious, artful cargo inside,

as the student volunteer—first time at the fry booth—

shields the child’s hands from too-hot potatoes

as the elder observes a beloved event,

entrusted to a new generation,

as clouds hold aloft (keep holding!), in mere vapor,

a flood of water

as security staff reverently carry

a flashlight through the darkness,

through these days, God, we bear you:

gently, mightily, praying in us.

Happy Harvest Market 2025