The Enemy - poem by Maryanne Hannan

for he it is that shall tread down our enemies
Psalm 108:13

On Your behalf, Lord, 
we shall identify the enemy. 
Sometimes we’ll use external

signs, the color of skin,
annual income, place of residence.
Other times we’ll probe

interior abominations – maybe
different beliefs, style of prayer
or a worrisome lack of church.

We can also come to understand
who is our enemy by the judgments
You send: famine, pestilence,

earthquake, drought,
plagues of locust,
the winning touchdown.

And when we have found our enemy,
help us in our treading. Don’t tell us
again to love our neighbor as ourselves.