HEARTBEAT

THE TABLE IS SET

The table is set
I see the people properly seated
I attend each one in turn
I wash their feet
tend their needs
answer their questions

They each have plates
with their names on them
at their places
The people are shouting
their own names
It's almost
deafening

The table is long
but I am nearly finished
One turns and asks me my name
I can't remember my name
I think it must not matter, anyway

I finish the last one and I, too
look for a place to sit at the table
As I look
I find open seats
but the people slide over
letting me know that those seats
are filled, also

I look for a name plate for me
but there is none
I look off in the distance
and see another
TABLE

A
TABLE
for two

My Friend is already seated
but stands as I approach
He calls me by name
I have no need to tell Him
There is not a name plate for me
but there is
A COMMUNION CUP
FILLED
        and
                     READY

***
I am leaving your company
many of those who I have served
For I have been censored by you
and truly
DO NOT
have a place with you
You will not grieve
You will not ever look for me
For you are toooooo busy making sure
everyone knows that you are at the table
The table of the sure
The table of the proud
The table of the name-seekers
The table which I will
NOT
visit again
FOR THERE IS NOT ROOM

~~
He knows my name....


THE BEAT GOES ON...