From The Cold

"it hits us at hallelujah"

it hits us at hallelujah

the congregation uplifted
with smartphones in the air

lay man, lay woman
boys and girls with peace signs

Jesus blows each screen
his birthday candles

until we are disconnected
to our own followers

phones off
no photographs

"Can't y'all stop? I reserved the venue for one hour," Jesus says.

December 25 "This is supposed to be about me."

the parents grumble, "Well,
what will you show
on your wedding day? This is for the slideshow

for your grandchildren to see."

Jesus is so patient

they don't know Him
on ordinary days

on this techless night
an undocumented memory

He does us a favor

and like most thoughtful gifts given
we didn't want it