Take Heart, Daughter

While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. And when Jesus came to the ruler's house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went through all that district. Matthew 9:18-26

Take heart, daughters
you have suffered long
never giving up or in you
live your life full of love
despite that pain constant
dull and searing unrelenting
daily you get up to serve.

Take heart, sisters
the light has pierced through
the saturating darkness
which took breath and life
has vanished with the morning
gone with daylight and love.

Take heart, sons
for your deep sorrow and sighs
echoed in heaven waking
compassion at its source
the dawning of healing has come
and you are alone no more.

Take heart, brothers
for the days of greed and slavery
are silenced this hour
God's right hand of mercy
dismissed the yoke and burden
and tore the shackles free.

Take heart, you mothers and fathers,
your prayers and tears daily touch
the heart of God moving
beyond understanding healing
beyond imagination.

Take heart, brothers and sisters all
for your suffering is felt
and your cries are heard
God is with us moving and changing
the tide of love is riding
to meet us all.