Christ Speaks

Behold, my other self,
the poorest king who ever lived.
Before my creatures I stand stripped.
The cross -- my deathbed --
even this is not my own.

Yet who has ever been so rich?

Possessing nothing, I own all --
my Father's love.

If you, too, would own everything,
be not solicitiouos
about your food, your clothes
your life.

The Tenth Station
Jesus is Stripped

I Reply

My Lord,
I offer you my all --
whatever I possess,
and more,
my self.

Detach me from the craving for
prestige,
position,
wealth.
Root out of me
all trace of envy of my neighbor
who has more than I.
Release me from the vice of pride,
my longing to exalt myself,
and lead me to the lowest place.

May I be poor in spirit, Lord,
so that I can be rich in you.