Language is a dynamic entity, and what is edgy and in exciting in one time becomes dated and inadequate in another.  I have long loved and used versions of the Shirley Erena Murray hymn 'For Everyone Born' which small emendations to increase its inclusivity. This week I happened across this version which gently moves the language on a little more...

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,

And God will delight
when we are creators of justice and joy,
yes, God will delight
when we are creators of justice, justice and joy!

For woman and man, a place at the table,
And all those between, beyond and besides
Expanding our world, dismantling the power
Each valued for what their voice can provide

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 gay, bi and straight, a place at the table.
Invited to wed, to baptise and preach
A rainbow of race and gender and colour.
For queer, trans and ace, God’s justice in reach

For bodies diverse, a place at then table.
All manner of speech and movement and minds;
Enabled to lead and teach us new language,
For bodies diverse, a church redesigned.

For just and unjust, a place at the table,
a chance to repent, reform, and rebuild,
protecting the wronged, without shame or pressure,
for just and unjust, God’s vision fulfilled.

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,

Original words: Shirley Erena Murray Words © 1998 Hope Publishing Company;

Additional and revised words, vv2,4,5,6 © Avery Arden at binarybreakingworship.com