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| A Loss for Words As I briefly went on social media late this afternoon, I was taken aback. I was wondering if I was watching a horror movie. And then I realized this was real life. People were climbing over the wall at Capitol Hill. People were threatening our democracy. People were violent and rioting. People are confused and scared. It brought me to tears and a deep sadness for our country. The images continued and were incredibly upsetting, and I wonder on this day of Epiphany, how in the world this could have happened. And then I was reminded of how the Magi traveled to see the child who would be the one called to reign and how that child’s birth brought so much fear to King Herod, that he ordered all the children under the age of 2 to be killed. Fear drove these actions. Fear is powerful. Fear destroys. And what I watched tonight was fear. Then I was reminded that the Magi made a choice because of a dream to travel a different way. They didn’t give into power. They didn’t give into fear. Instead, they listened to the dream they received and found a new way, and an unexpected path forward. I have always hoped they found a path that leads to peace, joy, love, and hope. That they found a way forward in a time that was tumultuous and confusing and full of fear. Tonight, I am discouraged. And at the same time, I am reminded of the importance to persevere in difficult times. I am reminded of the importance to hope when it seems impossible. I am reminded that God is walking each step with us and through us and is calling us to be the bearers of light in our broken and hurting world. And I am reminded that we persevere as we pray. Prayer is one of the greatest acts we have as believers. So, friends, I invite you to join together in prayer for our nation, for our leaders, for peace to prevail. Let us share the light of Christ, let us be the peaceful witness that is needed in our world. Below is a list of the Senators in Florida. Sorry I don’t have a list for those in other states. If you can, please let the Senators know they are being prayed for and encouraged by you and our congregation. Blessings to you all. Much love fellow dreamers. And I am going to go pray because I don’t know what else to do at this time. -Pastor Devon Here these words from the Psalmist (Psalm 46) 1 God is our refuge and strength, a help always near in times of great trouble. 2 That’s why we won’t be afraid when the world falls apart, when the mountains crumble into the center of the sea, 3 when its waters roar and rage, when the mountains shake because of its surging waves. Selah4 There is a river whose streams gladden God’s city, the holiest dwelling of the Most High. 5 God is in that city. It will never crumble. God will help it when morning dawns. 6 Nations roar; kingdoms crumble. God utters his voice; the earth melts. 7 The Lord of heavenly forces is with us! The God of Jacob is our place of safety. Selah8 Come, see the Lord’s deeds, what devastation he has imposed on the earth— 9 bringing wars to an end in every corner of the world, breaking the bow and shattering the spear, burning chariots with fire.10 “That’s enough! Now know that I am God! I am exalted among all nations; I am exalted throughout the world!”11 The Lord of heavenly forces is with us! The God of Jacob is our place of safety. Selah |
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