October 23, 2024
Wednesday Blessings,
I must apologize. My sermon last Sunday was disconnected. I started by asking everyone, “What are you afraid of?" Then I proceeded to tell the story of genocide in Rwanda. At the heart of the message was the story of a young man who had been forced to join the militia, and had been radicalized by extremists. Tragically this man was responsible for terrorizing and murdering many people - many of whom he had grown up with.
This story resonated deep inside of me. How can evil be a catalyzed in a manner that turns people to hate, harm, and even kill people? I am especially afraid because of the hateful rhetoric I've heard being spewed about immigrants. At a rally it was said, “We need to get rid of all the illegals.” After that, someone from the crowd shouted ‘Kill them.' Tears well up just writing these words. My daughter Mae is an immigrant. She is a naturalized American through adoption. So I share with you my fear. Everyday I fear for my daughter's life; for her safety; for her freedom.
I invite you to pause and consider Jesus's teaching According to Matthew:
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
Now take a deep breath. Do you see yourself in Jesus's words? If you do, then you are blessed. Now go and be a blessing to those you meet. You just might bless someone. Someone who has been told that they're not a beloved child of God. And in so doing, you might give them hope. You might just save their life. Perhaps someone like my daughter.
Peace,
Pastor JJ