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.