Monday, June 1st, 2020

This last week and weekend were forever marked by the tragic and unjustifiable murder of George Floyd, followed by nationwide peaceful protests, and unfortunately, destructive riots. When such palpably cruel events take place, it is impossible not to feel strong emotion about them. How we vent that emotion matters though, because no one should be harmed in the name of justice. Jesus never commanded his disciples to rise up and overthrow the Roman Empire, he did the opposite. However, there is real hurt and real frustration flowing through the world right now that cannot be fully understood by each and every person in it -- no matter how much we may think we understand what the issue is. But the nature of Jesus was to be a reconciler and a peace-bringer, and that should be all of our aim. By striving to be more like Christ, the end result will be a more peaceful and reconciled society. Romans says, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Today, pray we all become better than this because of this.

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.“ — Romans 12:1-2 ESV