What should we do?

Good morning brothers and sisters of faith,
In the midst of the chaos and confusion, we feel overwhelmed, overrun by events too big for us to manage or understand….

“What does the Lord require of us? the prophet Micah asks. God answers –
What does the Lord require, but to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.”

Did you notice?

• As cries of anger and threats of violence stalked our streets, police officers linked arms or kneeled to pray with hurting, angry protesters for a more just and peaceful city.
• When pain-filled marchers and frightened police stood face to face, conflict seething just beneath the surface, a group of women linked arms and stood between them.
• When violent protestors had isolated and threatened the life of a police officer, large African American men - peaceful protestors - surrounded the officer and guarded his safety.

When raging waters are rising and hot flames are ignited, every little act of justice, every small word of kindness, and gentle step matters. A lot.

• Call a senior living alone watching her world fall apart outside her apartment. Or send him a card, one of those real paper ones that you put in an envelope, stamp and mail.
• Encourage a graduating senior and thank a teacher who had to step out and step up on a short notice and do their job.
• Give a big smile and thank you to clerks in the stores, receptionists in the doctor’s office, nurses, therapists, hospital custodians, and the police who are keeping us safe.
• Show up at a prayer service. Give food to a food pantry. Send a check to a friend or neighbor you know to be in need.

Our nation is shaken to the core. We are looking at a steep uphill climb to get out of this. Keep the faith people, we worship a God who is greater than all of this. A God who has some basic, doable advice for us: Do justice. Love kindness. Walk humbly.
Sisters and brothers, let us pray, heart-deep, insistent prayers for peace. Amen?
Pastor Michael