December 14 – New Prophets Rising

“What is an abolitionist space?
It’s a place that practices safety.
It’s a place where all are intentional about not causing harm.”
– Patrisse Cullors

When a child is born there is excitement and a sense of renewed hope in creation. The possibilities are endless for what this new gift will bring to the world. One that is so small and fragile could grow up to change the world. When John the Baptist was born his father Zechariah marveled at his offspring and prophesied that one day John would go before the Lord to prepare his way and give knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins.

More than 2,000 years later and we find ourselves looking to a new generation of prophets who declare that bold actions must be taken, a new dawn must break forth, as we stand up to the power of violence. Since the spring of 1999 there have been approximately 118 active shooter incidents on the grounds of K-12 institutions. The very places our young people are sent to learn and grow are places that parents fear sending their children. Children should not have to advocate for themselves just to have the basic and unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, but here we are. Thanks to the work of incredible young people, including organizations like March for Our Lives, justice work is being done by young prophets who are demanding change to abolish the epidemic of gun violence.  The tender mercy of our God calls us.  These prophets are bringing a new dawn.  How will we follow their abolition vision into the way of peace?

Prayer

God of tender mercy, we are waiting.  Come.
New-day Maker, Dawn-Breaker, we are preparing.  Come.
With-Us-in-the-Darkness, Abiding One, we are longing.  Come.
Bringer of Peace, Maker of Ways-Out-of-No-Way, we are hoping.  Come.
Come, and be born in our hearts and our actions.  Amen.

Artwork: “Raise Up” by Yohana Junker (discover more at: https://www.yohanajunker.com/)