A Smoking Heart

A smoking heart needs oxygen and space.
It has to be open, exposed,
ready for anything,
will and other protections removed,
in eagerness for the Lord to enter it fully.

My heart needs to be warm, and vibrant,
human and beating.
Aware of all that is, and all that is false.
It leaves the false behind, in a locked chamber,
called my mind.

Now vulnerable and undefended,
it warms to Your presence,
producing prayers manifold and indescribable,
as smoke rises, carrying each one to You in praise.

From the invisible incense of my soul.