Induction

I never joined the minister, I joined this congregation;
As Creenglishman from Echoland – of Scottish and Cree Nation –
I’ve no illusion that I fit, not sure it really matters;
When troubles come (they always do) it’s interesting who scatters.

Induction time is here again, it’s meaning really varies;
Commitment made, as covenants, low meaning really carries,
For talk is cheap; I can’t be there (like shut-ins and the working);
So proxies speak the words for us, commitments we’re not shirking.

I think back to the times when I myself was being inducted;
Such times of immaturity when service was conducted –
Sometimes myself; sometimes the group; sometimes that mess of pottage;
But through all that You cared for us in Kirk, and manse, and cottage.

O Lord, please take our honest words and hopes for days of healing,
Let them arise from caring hearts not stopping at the ceiling;
Let them express our hopes today for life in this fair city;
And where we fail to honor them, in mercy show your pity.

Help me let go of bygone days with locus in induction,
And shift my gaze to life today and times of Your instruction;
Help me let go of shattered dreams, embrace each choice that mattered,
And all the rest let go to You – and to the four winds scatter.

I thank You, Lord, that You are here, with gifts to us of blessing –
This Means of Grace You've brought to us, like us their sins confessing;
I pray for days of growth and peace as onward we together,
Mature with Paul and Linda as we journey to forever.

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