Today

by Rev. Dr. Amy Chilton on 11/07/24

I have wrestled with what to say here since I woke up this morning and read the news (I’m writing this on Wednesday). I knew heading into today that no matter the outcome of the election, our work as Christians would remain the same: doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8). I reminded myself that history is cyclical and Empire keeps popping up over and over again.

Despite these reminders, today still feels raw. Or like the collective breath we all took in yesterday was followed by a punch to the gut preventing us from exhaling.

Now, I know we aren’t all aligned politically. I also know that we have covenanted together to be a church of radical welcome. So, hear these words not as endorsing one candidate - but rather as recognizing that anger, vitriol, fear, and grief have gripped our nation. Vulnerable people are numb and afraid. Organizations supporting LGBTQ folx (AWAB and the Trevor Project) are putting out mental health hotline numbers.

So, what do I say when the words won’t come?

First, our work as Christians remains the same no matter who sits on earthly thrones. We are still called to love God and love our neighbors as ourselves. We still aren’t given an out on who our neighbors are. The calls to praying in all things and acting in love remain.

Second, we are not alone. The book of Revelation shows us that even when the Empire is at its worst, God is still on the throne and we are still surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. So, don’t isolate yourself during this time. Come to church and reach out to your support system.

Third, the work of justice is community work. As Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., wrote in his Letter from a Birmingham Jail, “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Our divided country map shows us how far we have to go - and we won’t get there on our own.

But, for today, on a day when the words don’t want to come, it is okay to sit in silence. Sometimes silence is the best place for us to hear God speak.

Lord who moves mountains,

When the map is colored in and we see how much division, anger, and vitriol live in this nation, give us eyes to see Your light at work in this world.

When we are victims of others’ fears, hatreds, or prejudices, Lord grant us safety.

When we are perpetrators of violence, hatred, or prejudice, Lord stop our hands and tongues.

When we want to give up the fight for a more kind and just world, Lord be with us as we sit back and grieve and then relight the fire under us.

When we forget to remember our neighbors, remind us.

Amen

Blessings,

Pastor Amy