The Bloom in the Desert

Father Juniperus in the garden,
Tall as the cedar which shares his name,
Praying with lifted hands and
Sun shining on his face.

He has walked on the dirt where Jesus tread;
Listened to the breeze through the olive trees
In the ancient garden of Gethsemene
And only heard the words of Christ.

Not mine, but thine, I wish to say along
with Christ, Juniperus, and all the saints.
But the words stick in my throat
As I walk through the desert, Satan at my side.