What Be This ‘Baptism of Repentance’?

Tell us, seekers all, what be this baptism of repentance?

	It be a cleansing from paths perverse from neglect, from waywardness, 
                            and love of sleep.

Yes, and tell us, seekers all, what more be this baptism of repentance?

	It be a cleansing from all that was omitted, all that was withheld, 
             the fruit of willful blindness.

Yes, and tell us, seekers all, what more be this baptism of repentance?

	It be a washing from insurmountable cruelties, from stones heaped up
                             ‘gainst the tide of heaven’s mercies.

Yes, and tell us, seekers all, what more be this baptism of repentance?

	It be a washing from stumbling byways, from alleys paved with profanities.

Yes, and tell us, seekers all, what more be this baptism of repentance?

	It be a purging of all that is pitted and potholed, ways failing grace and joy.

Hasten then, one and all, you happy ones, summoned to embrace without shame the One awaited by the ages.  Such a One knocks at the threshold.  Surrender to the waters.  Then with amended life, go to meet the Beloved of heaven.  AMEN