A tense, uncertain situation. A call for prayer, hope, and trust in God
"When will our consciences grow so tender that we will
act to prevent human misery rather than avenge it?"
--- Eleanor Roosevelt
I confess my reluctance to address a certain issue that’s on so many minds right now. Like many of you, I’ve an uneasy feeling. For me, however, prayer takes precedence over rhetoric, hope over hype, and facts over feelings. I don’t know about you, but for me, there is much to sort out in my head — discerning what thoughts and feelings are based on a rational response versus a knee-jerk reaction. I’ve so much uncertainty to process, so much information to filter through.
In short: I simply don’t know.
Naturally, I strongly condemn acts of barbaric, heinous, and inhumane violence -- especially against civilians. Beyond that, I don’t fancy myself an expert on the subject at hand and I have a disdain for fearmongering. I recall the words attributed to Mohandas Gandhi: "An eye for an eye will leave everyone blind."
Thus, silence is my response.
Not because of indifference, but rather an inability to offer any edifying counsel.
There is, however, one thing I know to be absolutely certain: even in our darkest hours, there is never an occasion for hatred, which is a snare of the father of lies, who is especially cunning in situations like the one unfolding.
I strongly urge you to carefully and prayerfully discern your sources of information during this most fragile time. For my part, I’m going to keep vigil and pray for the peace from above, the salvation of our souls, the stability of the holy churches of God, and for the unity of all.
I hope you’ll join me in a prayerful, peaceful approach to a situation we cannot control. You know my motto — calm minds and sound doctrine will always prevail.