Messiness in the Community ~ David Patterson

Staff, March 17, 2021

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another." ~Romans 12:15-16

Perhaps the pandemic has made us aware that as Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly.”  During this pandemic, when we hear of people dying, our hearts go out to their loved ones. When we read of businesses having to close, we lament this painful loss. When we read how children are falling behind in school, we ask how can this be fixed? When the under-employed and unemployed are facing difficulty in trying to keep their homes and provide for their families, we weep. When we see people selfishly putting their needs and rights ahead of ensuring the wellbeing of those who are most vulnerable, we rightfully get angry. These are trying and “messy” times. But when we are ready to give up, we see a healthcare worker risking her life to provide care to the sick. We see a police officer, or a member of the National Guard standing in the midst of an angry crowd, doing their duty to keep the peace. A store cashier worker greets us as we purchase our groceries. We hear the muffled laughter of children who have innocently accepted wearing their masks. A neighbor stops by, checking to make sure you are all right. We receive word that a prayer has been lifted up on our behalf. And light overcome the darkness, right prevails, and we are given strength, perseverance, and assurance that together we’ll get through this.

God in whom we, who are many, are one body, thank you for the good people who reflect your love and light. Amen.