A Prayer for Wonder Restored

What does is mean to be a people of wonder?

This was the evening’s invitational question for the small group ministry covenant group I have the honor of facilitating in New Orleans.

And it has me thinking…and praying.

Almost every black person who talked with me after the non-indictment of Darren Wilson in the death of Mike Brown and of Daniel Pantaleo in the death of Eric Garner said “I’m not surprised.”

“I’m [angry, grieving, outraged, sad, mad, furious, exhausted…], but not surprised.”

No wonder that the justice system in this country offers no justice for their communities, their families…

On this winter night, I pray for wonder restored:

O god of our hearts,
May the systems of oppression
that steal wonder from people of color
and oh so much more

Be torn asunder
Made unfixable
Unsustainable

May the glory of rebalancing
Revaluing
Restoring
Reparations, yes, reparations –
May this healing abound

And may the grace of wonder be returned
So that every injustice
Brings surprise

 To everyone.

Amen.