My silence speaks

An empty chair pulled up to a small table set with just one plate, the emptiness itself speaking of longing for presence, with the words “my silence speaks to you” lettered by hand.

Brightness of eternal glory, comfort of the soul on its journey, with you my tongue has no voice, and my silence itself speaks to you. Come, oh come. Without you I’ll have no happy day or hour, because you are my joy, and without you my table is empty. Praise and glory to you. Let my mouth, my soul and everything you’ve made praise you and bless you together. Amen.

You have made known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in Your presence, with eternal pleasures at Your right hand.

Psalm 16:11 (BSB)

Adapted from Thomas à Kempis, via Prayers Ancient and Modern (1897), in plain words. The verse is from the Berean Standard Bible (public domain). Drawing: Mutter.