On Wednesday nights, we read each soul’s request—
Now many years. Their pleas enshroud the room.
A blood smeared slide showed cancer in Jill’s breast.
A drive-by shooting stole Alexis’ groom.
Bill, in his easy chair, suffered a stroke.
Dan broke a hip and is in ICU.
Sue’s son is on the streets, speed balling coke.
Jane’s bound in bed last week with type B flu.
We read and pray through every person’s list
And feel the weight of sorrow on our chests.
It is a wonder how such souls persist—
Amid their weary days and countless tests.
Many cascade down life’s relentless slopes.
We pray for God to lift their fragile hopes.
