Friends, going to a vigil or march around the idea that #blacklivesmatter in no way precludes the truth that #bluelivesmatter too. These are not mutually exclusive issues. There are times when our time, prayer and lives are focused in one area, not to exclusion of the other ... but simply focused differently.
In the last few days we have responded to the killing of two black men at the hands of the police AND we have responded to the killing of five Dallas police and DART officers, as well as the wounding of seven other officers and two civilian at the hands of an upset sniper.
Our hearts break regarding all of these human beings. But our hearts cannot shatter. Instead, our hearts must love. Parker Palmer says it this way: "When the heart is supple, it can be “broken open” into a greater capacity to hold our own and the world's pain: it happens every day. When we hold our suffering in a way that opens us to greater compassion, heartbreak becomes a source of healing, deepening our empathy for others who suffer and extending our ability to reach out to them.” 1
Our hopes and our prayers continue this day for the loved ones of those shot and killed, as well as those shot and are recovering in TX, LA, and MN these past few days.
The God of Love is sure to give us the heart and the will to change things in a way that ONLY LOVE can accomplish. Let us love, not hate. Work for peace, not war. Demand justice, not revenge. Find joy, not sorrow. Give support, not accusations. Listen to hearts, not walk away. Gather together to find answers, not run in fear. Lord in your mercy, hear our prayer. Amen.
With you, for peace, understanding, and justice.
Pr Brenda
And a song of hope that change has come and will come again.
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