Deliver Us, O Lord...

... from theological inbreeding

that seeks to convince us

that mirrored spiritual reflections

of ourselves are what will bring

peace and contentment

to our churches and

will usher your kingdom

into and onto the earth.

... from intellectual entrenchment

that would have us believe

that there is an educational and

understanding finish line

to which we are close.

... from cultural xenophobia

that squeezes fear's adrenal gland,

blinding us to the joy and gift

of creation's wonderful diversity.

... from Mammon's addiction

that disorients our passion receptors

and anesthetizes our hearts

so that we believe

it is both possible and appropriate

to love things and possess people.

... from all else that would

separate us from the grace

of your unconditional love.

Photo from PCUSA General Assembly 221 Exhibit Hall

© 2014 Todd Jenkins