Living in a world that is rife with hatred, bigotry and many other divisive forces, I am constantly reminded of how fortunate I am to be just a small part of the great work of God’s kingdom. Growing up, I always thought this kingdom was like an exclusive club: only those fortunate enough to know the secret handshake were allowed in. As I have grown and been in places like First Baptist, I have started to understand how untrue that actually is. God’s kingdom is one of inclusion. God welcomes and accepts all. Rich and poor, young and old, woman and man, gay and straight — there is a place at God’s table for everyone.
For Everyone Born
Lyrics by Shirley Erena Murray
For everyone born, a place at the table,
For everyone born, clean water and bread,
A shelter, a space, a safe place for growing
For everyone born, a star overhead.
For woman and man, a place at the table,
Revising the roles, deciding the share,
With wisdom and grace, dividing the power,
For woman and man, a system that’s fair.
For young and for old, a place at the table.
A voice to be heard, a part in the song,
The hands of a child in hands that are wrinkled,
For young and for old, the right to belong.
For just and unjust, a place at the table,
Abuser, abused, with need to forgive,
In anger and hurt, a mindset of mercy,
For just and unjust, a new way to live.
For everyone born, a place at the table,
To live without fear, and simply to be.
To work, to speak out, to witness and worship,
For everyone born, the right to be free.
And God will delight when we are creators of justice
And joy, compassion and peace:
Yes, God will delight when we are creators of justice,
Justice and joy!
- Shelton