It seems I can't do better, for my mind runs everywhere.

I've started at Your Throne five times, I guess, and then I've wandered

From pole to pole.

My mind has strolled and half an hour squandered.

I feel I've wasted time when I begin then don't go heav'nward.

And now I sit here puzzled. (Can You see me? Ire you here, Lord?)

I've wondered if it counts, if You, dear Father, know I'm trying;

If wand'ring tho'ts are ever "prayer"  or just "disqualifying."

I fear at times I'm too much flesh, and far too weak in spirit,

Unless somehow my wand'ring mind translates to prayer  (Lord, hear it?).

It flits from pointed praying to some thoughts about a friend

III see today. (His problem hats my heart  When will it end?).

That thought becomes a springboard to a time ten years ago,

This lovely morn their singing prompts my pen  I write these words:

"Remember to buy dog food for the pup this afternoon.

And, oh yes, while downtown, pick up the package." See! I've zoomed!

From this decade to that, and from one season to another,

I ended with a dog, when starting prayer for one dear brother.

What do you think Lord, of this child, whose mind's so awfully flabby?

(Of course, it's not this way always, You know, Lord  all this shabby.)

I have some days when worship scars and intercession presses

To take the Kingdom e'en by force  as faithfilled prayer possesses;

Possesses promised land You've said will surely yield to them

Whose warfare strikes hell's battlelines, and boldly enters in

In to seize sure vict'ry's prize, the rescue of men's souls;

God, look! I'm off again! 0 Lord, forgive my wand'ring so.

"Gird up!", I shout. "Now, every thought, I take you captive

"Become obedient onto Christ!" I now command my brain.

"Stop wand'ring!" (What was that? The cat? I most let Fluffy in.)

Good morning, kitty. Need some milk? (Oh, look, the paper's there

Beside the porch. I'll got it, quick though in my underwear!)

The cat is fed. The dog's outside. Now back to prayer ... What's that?

The headline of the paper says the President is back.

But lay that paper down now, soul; you're not done with your praying.

Back to my knees. I'm here now, Lord. Let's see  what was I saying?

I came because I love you, Lord; my poor mind notwithstanding

My heart is Yours, so please, these tours of mine  be understanding.

And somehow in the silence (There's the neighbor's car now, leaving.)

I think ... indeed, I do; I hear a Voice  Lord, I'm receiving!

"For I am still your God, and still My eye scans earth for hearts,

Not minds. For human intellect, at best, is so 'in part.'

I loathe no mind, but neither honor thoughts which have no love;

And no mind pierces heaven  only hearts ascend above."

"So don't despair, child  Yes! This hour just passed does count with Me.

I also care about your pup, ad for your hungry kitty.

Those actions may not be a prayer, but neither are they sinning.

I don't mind simply being here: all lovers have their memories