STAND FOR PEACE

I am sure you have heard the news lately coming out of St. Paul, Minnesota, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Dallas, Texas and the world. Our hearts are all breaking. Many people during this time, including our community, may be feeling dismayed by the state of our country and our world. Our prayers and condolences are with all the families.

We are not here simply to create a wonderful life for ourselves and our children (although that’s a fine start). We are here to demonstrate what is possible as a society. We are here to boldly forge a brighter future with opportunity and prosperity, peace and security, health and justice for all. This is why we each feel dismay and heartache with the painful realization that we are not yet accomplishing what we are here to do.

We can blame our system for being rigged. We can blame our politicians and leaders as most of us do. We can blame our fellow citizens for being deluded. But that does not change the fact that each and every one of us can and must do something about it.

We must take responsibility for being the change we want to see if we are to fulfill our mission. The truth is that we did not choose to be born or reside in this amazing country to entertain ourselves until we make our transition. In Matthew 5:9, Jesus reminds us that “blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” The world is in need of your light. I encourage our community to stand in peace.

At noon let us unite in prayer with our nation as we pray for peace. Join in wherever you are at that moment.