as his silence sunk deeper
but his loving grew tender
mystery
after years of barren longing
and a lifetime of waiting
the unthinkable
when hope had receded
and shame taken hold
a tentative
glimmer of joy
as blood issue ceased
and mornings held sickness
gratitude
when new life stirred
and her ageing body swelled
wonder
as Mary approached
and the child within danced
knowledge
as she birthed the tiny miracle
and a voice was unlocked
absolute joy beyond joy
his name
is John
©Pat Marsh
Image Mary and Elizabeth, Dorothy Webster (1884-1970)
Pat is a writer and retreat leader. She was a Vaughan Park Scholar in 2010.