Sent by ash

we are sent by ash 
with repent, return
with remember. sent
to the harsh desert

neighbors are in detention
fearing deportation
and Christ: in the desert fasting

we join Love in the desert, 
disoriented, dizzy. we thirst 
as we wander rending

our hearts and lives for love
offering the ache of hope, 
conversion, longing 

for renewal, justice
giving alms on bended knees
crying out 

now is the time to repent
to change our ways, to renew
our love of God, neighbors

now is the time to prepare 
for our pending death
and be everything for love
trusting in who's holy
as Christ models in the desert

we thirst as we wander 
roughed by the sand 
rending our hearts again 
along the way, encountering 
the colors of hope: 
there is death and also
the desert is alive, in bloom