Them.

Thus far I have purposely avoided blog posts on current events. It's not the kind of expression I aim for, and I just really, really don't want to write that way.

However, this past week, the African American community has endured immeasurable sorrow and frustration, and we have all watched in horror as things have unfolded and many lives have been lost.

Regardless of political, philosophical, or experiential opinions on these situations, there is a people group in our country that is hurting, and our number one job, is to love them.

(And maybe even shut up!)

One of the ways we show our love for people, is to pray for them. I have spent much time in prayer for the families of all those tragically killed last week.

However, my reason for this post is a thought that I had earlier today, as the words I spoke out in prayer echoed in my head.

As I pray, I often use language that excludes myself from a situation. I pray for "them". I pray for "those".

I repent of this.

The truth is, we should be praying about this situation as our own, not "theirs".

Oh God,
WE, need healing.
WE, need peace.
WE, need patience.
WE, need unity.
WE, need restoration.
WE, need justice.
WE, need comfort.

If you are not only a Christian but an American, this is YOUR problem also. It's not across the street, the state, the mountains......

It's right there, looking at you in the mirror.

This is OUR problem.

Think of your language and perspective the next time you pray.

Grace and Peace to you.

The Sabbath Challenge

Most define a Sabbath as: a day of religious observance and abstinence from work, kept by Jews from Friday evening to Saturday evening, and by most Christians on Sunday.

Sabbath is a day where your chores are done, even if they are not.

Sabbath is a day where only my close friends and family can get in touch.

Sabbath is a day where I look for ways to smile with my family.

A day of accomplishing nothing.

A day to banish thoughts of the upcoming week, dreaded trips away from home, and all that is included.

Sabbath is a day to look at the lake for long periods of time, and not justify why I'm not doing more.

Sabbath is a day where I remind myself I am not a machine.

Sabbath is a day to look for reasons why God called this creation "good".

Sabbath is a day to enjoy the family and life you've been given.

Take the Sabbath challenge. Write down how you feel in the morning. Take an ACTUAL Sabbath, then compare how you felt in the morning with how you feel at the end of the day.

God doesn't leave us where we are.

Let him charge you up.

You'll be thankful.