Scripture: Romans 3:15-17
Their feet are swift to shed blood; ruin and misery are in their paths, and the way of peace they have not known.”
Thought for the Day: Years ago, I would occasionally attend a pentecostal church on Wednesday evenings. In part, it was to help me better understand a faith tradition different than my own. I would hear the pastor shout, “Someone, give me a witness!” Things would usually quiet down as the congregation watched for the spirit to nudge an individual to offer a testimony. Though I don’t believe my church would know what to do with that request if I was to make it, I wonder if we should more frequently make that request of the faith community…to ask for a clear witness to the ways of Jesus.
It was the violence at Spring High School yesterday that got me to thinking about our need for a witness. I’m not suggesting someone who might pontificate about our fallen state or the sinful culture in which we live. I’m talking about a witness to the ways of Jesus, a living and visible testimony of grace and peace. Too often our children are taught to meet violence with violence, to perpetuate the cycle of hostility and brutality. The world needs a different witness, and Jesus did his best to offer a pretty clear example of how the cycle is broken and true healing begins.
In his blog yesterday, my friend (Rev. Michael Junkroski) wrote about conflict and violence in our world. He described it in terms of a dance. That is, an unhealthy and destructive dance. Michael suggested that “at least part of the reason we’re stuck in this singular, self-destructive groove is because nobody has the vision (maybe courage) to dance differently.”
Our children desperately need a different witness. Who will give that witness? Who will provide a radical alternative to the current approach that preserves and empowers the very thing we wish to change? Someone needs to provide a courageous vision to how things could be, and though many would find it intimidating at first, Jesus seemed convinced that his followers were more than capable. Are you ready to give that witness?
Prayer: We need your assistance, Mighty One, as too many of our children see violence as their only option. Your vision of the peaceful way, combined with the courage of faithful people, provides a clear expression of what is possible. Amen.
NEXT THREE SUNDAYS
COMING SOON
Great night of card-making!!
2 thoughts on “Ecclesiological Etchings: 09-05-13”
Well said, Pastor Frogge! I think as parents we need to pray unceasingly for the spiritual tools and strength to protect and witness to our children so that they feel a purpose and meaning in our world. They need to see a higher calling other than the distractions that constantly challenge their spirits and dumb-down the windows to their souls. We have to fight like crazy for our kids but there is no nobler fight on this earth.
Thank you! Great comments, Barbara. In this spiritual struggle, we need to make sure our children see other options beyond violence.