We Are Only Dust

Dust

by: John Van de Laar

When it comes down to it, God,

we are only dust -

temporary,

fragile -

and we need your breath

to bring us to life.

But when we forget the God-imaged spirit

that lives in us and all people,

may our prayers open our eyes again.

When we hoard what we have

believing life is found in the things of dust,

may our giving and serving bring us indestructible wealth.

When we throw off restraint,

believing that freedom is license,

may our fasting liberate us from our appetites,

and teach us simplicity.

We are all dust, God,

from the strongest to the weakest,

the greatest to the least;

and we all need your breath

to give us life.

So, in every circumstance, every place,

every interaction, every decision,

may we choose only what will embrace and share life

with every spec of this created dust

that you love so dearly.