Please join me in praying for the United States. Today, we sit on the edge of our seats and hold our collective breaths as we see whom Americans will choose to lead their country.
The world awaits, because the tenor and decisions of that country affect the world.
For the immediate short term, I pray for peace to prevail. There is a lot of fear of violence and unrest that may arise, regardless of who is elected. May people be safe from harm, and may calmness prevail over anger.
For the longer term, regardless of who is elected, there is so much healing that needs to take place. Divisions have become hardened, and anxieties have been exacerbated.
This makes me reflect on what we do and why we exist as a church. What is the most concrete outcome of who we are as a faith community? The most concrete outcome is learning to live in harmony with other human beings. Just like our theme for this year states (“Becoming Together”).
Even if someone offends me, hurts me, or is very different from me, I still see that person as my brother or sister, or at least as a human being worthy of dignity. That person doesn’t need to think like I do, do what I do, or behave in the way I expect. I still see that person as an individual worthy of respect and dignified treatment.
Getting to that concrete outcome requires a deeply rooted spirituality. A spirituality that cultivates the best of our humanity and is aware of our real shortcomings. A spirituality that does not succumb to our shortcomings, but one that allows God to bring out the best of our spirits. Through the teachings, life, death and resurrection of Jesus; through the truth and insights that come from our engagement with Scripture; through the power of the Spirit, we cultivate the humanity that was created in the image of God, and affirm that imago Dei in others.
Therefore, let us pray. And let us commit ourselves to the continual journey of our spiritual growth, so that we can be the salt of the earth and light of the world.
Sincerely,
Simon
Ps. I tested negative for COVID-19. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. Please download the COVID app!
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