Poem: “The Enemy”

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.

“The Enemy.” Copyright © 2018 by Maryanne Hannan. By permission of the poet.