2/24/22
Dear Siblings in Christ,
This morning we faced two crises developing in our world that a few weeks ago we may well have thought to be unimaginable.
First, we awoke to the news of a Russian invasion of Ukraine. I will not pretend to be an expert in the geo-political situation that is at play in this war and these acts of violence. I will stand as a disciple of Jesus and say that we are called to stand with the poor, the oppressed, and those suffering at the hands of political powers. I encourage us all to be in prayer for the people of Ukraine. Those fleeing their homes. Those hiding in shelters. And those fighting for their country. I will also remind us that as followers of Jesus we are called to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. So, we are also in prayer for President Putin and the Russian leaders that they would turn away from their violent actions and seek a path of peace. As far as it is possible for us, we pray that God would make us instruments of peace in our own lives and for our communities.
Second, in our own community new directives were handed down by Gov. Abbot regarding policies for the Department of Family and Protective Services and children/teens who identify as transgender. Again, I do not claim to understand all the legal implications of the Governor’s directive. But I do understand what a parent would feel if they told that caring for their child who identifies as transgender is now a crime. I do understand how teachers, counselors, social workers, doctors, and others who are considered mandatory reporters would feel if they now have to choose between following a law or providing a safe and loving environment for a child who is already facing innumerable challenges in society.
I don’t know what will come from Gov. Abbot’s directive, but I want to say as clearly as I can that when we at Lord of Life say in our mission statement that “we seek and welcome all” we do not put an asterisk after “all.” All truly means ALL. We believe in a God who loves, embraces, welcomes, and redeems ALL people. And so, as God’s people on the corner of Panther Creek and Glen Loch, we follow God’s lead to do the same. If you identify as transgender, you are welcomed and loved at Lord of Life. If you have a child, grandchild, neighbor, friend, co-worker who identifies as transgender, they are welcomed and loved at Lord of Life.
In times such as these, when so much pulls our focus away from the Gospel of Jesus Christ, it can be tempting to curl inward. To build up our walls and try to protect ourselves from outside dangers. But our call as followers of Jesus is not to stay hidden in the upper room; it is to be led boldly by the Spirit to proclaim God’s reign of justice, peace, love, and healing for all of creation. May God grant us the strength and wisdom to be instruments of this proclamation. May we endlessly pursue the vision of our community, “That ALL have life through the love of Christ.”
God loves each of you and I do too,
Pastor David
