DISCOURAGEMENT AND HOPE

​I have found these past days profoundly unsettling. I imagine that, no matter where you stand politically, the same is true for you. After months of struggle and unrest, more chaos and lawlessness, and they have shaken us deeply as a nation. Even if born of desperation, violence is never the answer. It cancels good-will and sabotages hopes of dialogue. It divides. The divisions in our country have further been laid bare and deepened. Such divisions tear painfully at our hearts.
​​In the light of these events and prompted by the love that gathers us, I ask that we, at ASA, recommit to being peacemakers, to being and respecting seekers of truth, to judging no hearts but holding all accountable for actions, to promoting justice, to praying for healing and unity, to listening and to dialogue, to daring to hope, to loving our neighbor as our Lord loves us, because our Lord loves us. This is our mission. Will you join me in renewing this?
Let us pray:
God of ages, in your sight nations rise and fall and pass through times of peril. Now when our land is troubled, be near to judge and to save. May leaders be led by your wisdom; may they search for your will and see it clearly. In any ways we have turned from your way, help us to reverse them. Give us your light and your truth to guide us; through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of this world, and our Savior. Amen