After a week of seeing little more than violent confrontations between people of various political opinions, reading about right-wing militia groups deciding they are going to “defend” property – whatever that means, and political leaders hurling insults at opponents, it’s time to stand back and recalibrate ourselves.
As Christians, we should not have been surprised at the upheavals our society and Nation are experiencing. Jesus called our attention to the fact that those with power are not willing to let go of their power and will use any means to hold onto power.
As we consider the events of the past week, it’s important to realize that our refusal to participate in hate-filled and fear-mongering speech conveys a sign that there are other ways to bring about social justice.
Prayer for the Day
Distressed by the events about us, we come to you, O Holy One,
For we are baffled and seek understanding;
Confused and often bewildered, we seek answers
But often we are not sure of what questions to ask.
Help us overcome the apprehension we feel
And help us discern better ways of caring for others.
In the name of him who is the guide for our lives,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
When despair for the world grows in me . . . . I come into the peace of wild things who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day-blind stars waiting with their light. For a time I rest in the grace of the world and am free.
- Wendell Berry, from his poem "The Peace of Wild Things"
Mysteriously hidden within each of us are the seeds that can germinate into a new society, a new planet. Like the corn, we have hidden deep within our living process a wisdom that reaches back to all knowledge and beyond all possibilities.
- Anne Wilson Schaef, American psychologist/writer (1934–2020)
Sacrifice and offering you do not desire, but you have given me an open ear.
Burnt offering and sin offering you have not required.
Then I said, “Here I am; in the scroll of the book it is written of me.
I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.”
Psalm 40: 6–8