October 26th

“For I was envious of the arrogant;
   I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Psalm 73:3

it really is so unfair—
we take one step forward,
stumble and end up two steps back
while those so-and-sos glide up
ladders of success as easily
as spreading butter on bread.
we see their groaning table,
plenty spilling from stuffed pockets,
laughter which diverts them from
the sights and cries of the poor.
have we gotten the way to life
wrong all our lives
as if compassion was the worst
investment we could ever make
in this world which rewards ruthlessness?
forgive us,
when we think what we possess
is the measure of your blessings
or mistake the shininess of gold
for the light of your grace.
the wicked may indeed prosper,
for a season or more,
but it is your love which
sustains through all time
and only your mercy
which makes us
and only your mercy
which should fill our portfolios.

(c) 2026 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman