The Color of My Heart
So why was morning early this particular day
I decided to follow, so it could lead the way
The sky still dark, song birds not yet awake
But, the unseen blazing sun was no mistake
The sphere this time consumed my field of view
Its bold red center fanning out striking hues
Time moved leisurely by as I waited patiently
to understand the purpose of what was to be
Even with my eyes opened, it did not disappear
Its Technicolor glory gave me no reason to fear
Forty years of life have passed since its first visit
unpredictably morphing and changing bit by bit
Faith has taught me it is the sphere of our humanity
embraced by Christ’s infinite love in all its beauty
This occasion appreciated it as a piece of fine art
A simple statement; “this is the color of my heart”
I wiped away a single tear in humble, silent praise
and committed myself to Him renewed, as always
It would seem frequency would make me used to this
but, every day, I still look forward to His morning kiss
The summer before I was teenager I had an image of a divinely inspired sphere become etched into my mind. This burning image can show up at any time and place no matter where I am in my state of life. I have learned to accept it as just simply being there with me. Of course, this image does not exist in the real world as it is an intellectual image that only I can find meaning within the specific moment. It has remained a part of my interior life, consistently and constantly changing and morphing without needing or ever asking anything in return. I have determined that the image is not important and is secondary to the thoughts it allows me to collect, gather and reflect on.
This time it brought me into the presence of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Reflecting back over my life I can see that without Jesus I do not think I could have peace in my own heart or so many other feelings such as concern, mercy and prayer. Knowing Jesus has embraced the sphere of humanity has led me towards action for those less fortunate.
For further reflection: St. Bonaventure, Vitis Mystica (The Mystical Vine Treatise on the Passion of the Lord) Vitis Mystica.pdf (5.44 mb) (Right click to download)
The Color of My Heart painting by Jerry
The poem above is included in the collection of 40 Christian poems in the The Color of My Heart within the Immersive Prayer website. The poems are also available in book form on Amazon in Paperback or . All Proceeds go to Charity. |
Additional Thoughts about my Poetry
I believe my writing fits snugly into the category of grounded mystical Christian theology. I have studied, written, and spiritually and physically applied this practical concept in my life for nearly two decades. I have never seen or participated in what some might call a vision or phenomenon. However, I appreciate that they may be a reality for the person or group, and God has provided them with deep consolation. For me, consolation is the beginning of a two-way relationship with God.
My own experiences are more intellectual in nature because I lean toward engineering and science. The reality for me is that God is always present because we are his tabernacles. We constantly miss His surfacing of lighter than a feather touch because we are a physical people. We talk about opening our hearts to this love, but technically, our intellect gets in the way. I have been trying to prove this virtually every day for well over a decade by documenting what I believe are grounded mystical thoughts in various ways.
The tragedy of 9/11 was a significant transformative moment in my spiritual life because of a first hand experience. I am re-dedicating the thoughts and prayers associated with my Christian Poetry to all those affected.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these reflections of the contemplative material of this Web-based ministry? Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite the world’s distractions.
Attributions:
This site has written permission from New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) to use Bible passages.
This website follows the guidelines for image web use at the website of the Brooklyn Museum, the Jewish Museum and this Immersive Prayer website.
Peace,
Jerry