January 1st

"Go through, go through the gates,
   prepare the way for the people;
build up, build up the highway,
   clear it of stones,
lift up an ensign over the peoples." Isaiah 62:10

may this be the year 

we go through the neighborhoods

and repair the homes

of those too old to care

for them or those to poor

to bear all the costs.

may this be the year

when we walk with the

forgotten, the vulnerable,

the broken, the lonely, 

crying out for the powerful

to make way for those who

are God's most valued children.

may this be the year

we will clear grudges

from the floors of our memories

and repair the streets of those

considered to be worthless

and raise the banner of justice

over all oppressed everywhere.

may this be the year.

finally.

(c) 2023 Thom M. Shuman

Venmo: @Thom-Shuman