Spring Anima Christi

(Apologies and gratitude to St. Ignatius of Loyola who included the original Anima Christi prayer as part of his Spiritual Exercises and which was the inspiration for this reflection.)

 

Dogwood flowers dance

on the fingertips of branches

at the touch of a breeze.

Each mandala blossom turned skyward

gazes into the naked eye of Christ…

Soul of Christ, sanctify me.

 

Pressing my bare toes into the sun-drenched dirt

I whisper, “dust to dust”

as this great body beneath my feet

embraces my humanity.

Body of Christ, save me.

 

Pear trees radiant in evening light

Churn into a frothy river

and flow down the street.

A soft breeze touches the tree above me

and blossoms let loose a waterfall of petals.

Water from the side of Christ, wash me.

 

The purple plum bleeds flowers

across the lawn and into the street

where car tires and bikes and the feet of playing children

become the winepress of its red beauty.

Blood of Christ, inebriate me.

 

The redbud’s passion for the lengthening light

burns from its branches

til the tree glows lavender and

even old wounds on its trunk bleed flowers.

Passion of Christ, strengthen me.

 

Great Cosmic Christ,

through the windows of your hands and feet,

the doorway of your side,

You invite me in to rest, reminding me that

this spring feast is only a paltry reminder

of your prodigality,

and, hungry,

I yearn for the marriage of death

When nothing will keep me from you.

Amen.

– Reflection and photo by Sister Joyce Lehman

One Comment:

  1. Wow this is indeed a beautiful praise to God.

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