so much brokenness,
so much division,
so many angry words:

the Koreas cannot resolve
their nuclear issues;
the Senate argues
a 'nuclear option'
regarding debate;
communities divide
over who should have
what entitlements;
couples fight
over children;
even the church
cannot unite itself.

but if we are quiet,
if we listen,
if we put others
before ourselves,
if we put needs
ahead of interests:

you can bridge the brokennes,
you can heal the wornds,
you can unite us.

Loving God,
work in us,
work through us,
work despite us.
Amen.

(c) 2005 Thom M. Shuman