Essential

Doggy treats and packaged sweets?
They're essential.
Voices raised in songs of praise?
Risk potential.

Hardware stores and tools for chores?
They're essential.
Gathered flock for pastor's talk?
Inconsequential.

Nurseries for shrubs and trees?
They're essential.
Shaking hand of fellow man?
Detrimental.

Exercise or purchase pies?
That's essential.
Face to face to share God's grace?
Nothing special.

Construction crews and Covid news?
They're essential.
Folks in pews for Gospel truths?
Just preferential.

Take-out meals or buy new wheels?
Yup, essential.
Loss of wealth and mental health?
Exponential.

Fly in planes or subway trains?
Sure, essential.
The chat you had with Mom & Dad?
Keep confidential!

The worst I fear is drawing near,
It's essential.
The judgment stored will be outpoured,
Providential.