Obliged by Love

I feel obliged by blood to pray for them,
we choose our friends, God picks each relative,
He puts them in our path, not to condemn,
but pray for them and help them better live.

I feel obliged by love to pray the more
for those who own a portion of my heart,
who I’ve developed strong affection for,
of those whose life and love I am a part.

I feel obliged by wider loves than these
to love my neighbor as God has commanded,
that’s everyone, even my enemies,
for love begun is easily expanded.

By Your command, Lord, love’s an obligation,
though love, once there, is its own motivation.

                              by Pete Voelz     5/20/14