12 - For Jerusalem

It happened before at Camp David. Can if happen again? We all are watching, listening as Chairman Arafat and Prime Minister Barak sit together and try to bring about peace for their people. I don’t presume to understand all the implications. I see the frustration of trying to negotiate vast change. Jerusalem is at the center of the frustrations. It is central to the souls of so many. Can it be compartmentalized so that it serves them all? What is best for all? A city at peace.

Twelve

For Jerusalem

Builder of Jerusalem,
Reconstructor of the City of Shalom,
Where can Your people rest
Amid the fury that strangles the towers?

Stone on stone, and cracks between,
Grasping for the quiet
That echoes peace,
Gasping at the pain of discord.

Where are You in the Old City?
Why have You hidden from the marketplace?
I circle above, climbing the hills,
While below the anger persists.

High above, the colors merge,
The faces curve toward the sun
As it turns the stone to gold
And the stone reflects back its glow.

Turn back, and lift again Your trowel,
Gather the mortar and the stones
To reassemble the City,
And invigorate the people.

Restore again Your City, O Builder,
Renew Your people in its harmony.
Clear the rancor from the alleyways,
And the hatred from the streets.