What kind of world do we want to live in?

 
Dear FCCV Family and Friends,
      

My heart and mind are still reeling from the horrific events we witnessed in our nation’s capitol yesterday. I feel furious, deeply grieved, and exhausted.  And while yesterday’s events certainly reached a new low by those who continue to stoke the fires of deceit, racism, and violence, I experienced them as yet one more attack—in a constant stream of attacks—on justice, integrity, and democracy.  Rage filled me as I watched the shameful discrepancy between the ways Black Lives Matter protestors have been met in our nation’s capitol and the ways yesterday’s white terrorist mob was handled.
      

We have to be better than this.  We have to live into the faith we claim.  We have to address the bias and racism we harbor within ourselves, no matter how difficult that may be.  Our spiritual livelihood depends on it.
      

Yesterday’s attack on the capitol was an attack on all of us.  And it also offers us a profound challenge:  Who do we want to be?  What kind of world do we want to live in?  And how do we imagine getting there?  The church has an important role to play in holding the moral center in public debates—and in holding power accountable to the timeless values of truth, compassion, and justice. We must never relinquish this vital role and responsibility.
      

And, if you are like me, reeling and exhausted, there must also be room for gentleness and rest—time to recover our strength for the road ahead.  Remember, you are not alone.  We are all in this together—fortified by a God who is a close to us as breath—and a community of beloved and beautiful souls who believe fervently in God’s justice for all people.  I am deeply grateful for you!
 

Blessings,
Christy