Dreaming a New Creation

Dreaming a New Creation
Easter 5; Acts 11:1-18
In Peter’s dream, the creatures deemed unclean
in sacred scrolls were called food fit to eat.
Three times he heard the Spirit’s voice repeat:
“Don’t call profane what God has now made clean!”

Then Peter, urged by vision’s metaphor,
agreed to travel to a Gentile home,
invited by an officer from Rome –
a breach of nation’s pride and hallowed law.

When Peter preached to the uncircumcised,
the Holy Spirit baptized those who heard.
“Don’t make distinctions!” Hear the Spirit’s word!
We hinder God when others are despised.

Yet in our world the histories of hate
still motivate atrocities of war,
and selfish privilege has barred the door,
excluding those unjustly forced to wait.

O let the visions come and Spirit voice 
plead with such prejudice to right the wrongs.
Let messengers be heard in freedom songs
and leaders dare to make the healing choice.
	Barbara Messner 14/05/2025