Betty O’Hearn reads her poem at the Art of Poetry event on September 17, 2016 at Hickory Museum of Art.  Betty’s poetry was inspired by a painting from the series of Norma Suddreth works based on her visit to the Holy Land. Photo courtesy of Roger and Ginny Sanford.

Betty O’Hearn
MIRACLE LIFT OFF
after “Synagogue at Capernaum” by Norma S. Suddreth

Located on the Sea of Galilee, it was
a warm day in April when I first saw you.
Touching your walls I closed my eyes
and placed myself in the presence of
the Christ.

This is the city where he called
home after he left Nazareth. It was
more suited to his energetic ministry.
He came to teach in this synagogue
on Shabbat.

Capernaum, the epicenter and
beginning of Christ’s miracles. It
is here that he performed his
first exorcism. It is here where
the centurion asked for the healing
of his servant.

Stand by this synagogue and
feel history. Listen to the Spirit
tell you its story. Many teachings
and miracles took place. The
sacred and ancient synagogue
asks that you touch and listen.