Tuesday, September 19th, 2017

The riots in St. Louis have continued for days after a white police officer was acquitted of charges in the killing of a black man. While any loss of life is tragic, our American society is founded upon laws and a judicial system that aims to punish those who have broken a law. This system has limitations though; it is not perfect and it is not designed to punish sinners, it is made to adjudicate justice to law beakers. The ultimate judgement of sin is reserved for our God, and He also reserves vengeance. When we rise up in violent protests and riots when tragedy strikes, what we are doing is appointing ourselves judge, jury, and executioner of other people's sin. Taking vengeance is an act of defiance of God. In Hebrews, it says "For we know him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge his people.” In a nation where riots have become more and more frequent, as Christians, it is incumbent upon us to lead the way with love, grace, and forgiveness. As it says in 2 Corinthians, "Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you." Pray today for peace in our nation and world, for churches across the world to band together in praise of Jesus and in solidarity of mind, and for love, grace, and forgiveness to be the first words we utter in the face of tragedy.

"For we know him who said, “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” and again, “The Lord will judge his people.” -- Hebrews 10:30 NIV

"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you." -- 2 Corinthians 13:11 NIV