on reading Isaiah 1
What possible good
Are praises to me?
I’m sated with song,
Sickened by revelry;
Whore-hearted dance
To a crass tambourine.
While my creation
Lies groaning in tears.
What flattery does to me
Nobody fears.
What do you think
Your praises will do?
So weary of creeds
That don’t mean a fig to you;
Self-serving deeds,
Snug-righteous platitudes,
While my beloved,
Bereft of delight,
(Prey of the well-to-do)
Fear for the night.
What do you think
Truly matters to me?
What you have heard
Sounds an absurdity:
“Incarnate Word,” and,
“Love was the death of me.”
Fool’s gods and goddesses!
Clear from the start,
I AM (religiously)
Merciful Heart.
— 
Steve Bell is a Winnipeg singer/songwriter who’s career has produced 16 solo albums as well as concert performances world-wide. Steve and his wife Nanci make their home in Winnipeg where they worship with the fellowship at St. Benedict’s Table.
