if you choose, Lord,
you could wipe out
the poverty in our land.

if you choose, Lord,
you could end the suffering
of children and women.

if you choose, Lord,
you could destroy all weapons
and institute a reign of peace
throughout the world.

if you choose, Lord,
all these things -
and more -
could take place.

now,
like the Hebrews
in the wilderness,
help us to stop our grumbling,
and remember
you have chosen -
to do all these things,
through us.
Amen.

(based on Matthew 8:1-4)

(c) 2005 Thom M. Shuman