Gather me in

Jerusalem, Jerusalem! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! —Luke 13..34

Gather me, Mother Christ. I am your wayward child, impetuous and free, defiantly lonesome, wholly at risk without you. Never mind my rebelliousness, my fear of your fierce adoration, how I disbelieve how deeply I need your love and how deeply you give it. Gather me in, Mother Christ, with all your little ones, all of them. Embrace me, hold me long and gentle, for I am tired and afraid and will run no more. I am willing. Gather me in.