And now says the LORD
Return to Me with all your heart!
Fast! Weep! Mourn!
In grief, tear not your garments, but tear
your hearts in regret
and sorrow for your sin.
Return to the LORD your God Who Is
gracious, merciful,
slow to anger,
and unswerving
in love –
a God – your God
Who wants not to punish
but turn toward you
with bread and wine
and blessing.
© 2013, Mary Sayler, prayer-a-phrase of today’s Bible reading from the Prophets, Joel 2:12-14
