Pray for the Nation

We now stand in the shadow of the mid-term elections. I have to say that I am very glad the campaign and especially the ads are behind us. There was a level of venom and attack that I found rather disturbing. The country certainly is not of one mind. (Never has been, never will be...the church is the same - I might add.) I believe, however, there is a growing lack of civility and willingness to cooperate. I find this troubling. It is US verses THEM. Rich versus poor. White versus black versus latino. Official citizens versus illegal immigrants. Christians versus Muslims. Republicans versus Democrats, and now add the Tea Party. Fear versus hope. Trust versus suspicion.

There is no doubt, times are tough. People are anxious. There are more questions than answers. But, I believe "united we stand, divided we fall." Regardless of your political, ideological or theological position, I ask you to pray for our leaders...ALL of them. Pray for the President, pray for our senators and representatives. Pray for wisdom and understanding. Pray for a new spirit of cooperation and civility. Pray for our country and the world that we, as citizens of a global community, "may be a sign of Christ's love to this sinful and broken world, that unity may overcome estrangement, forgiveness heal guilt, and joy conquer despair." (BCP, p.429)

It is in challenging times when our true character is revealed. May our character show us to be a people of honesty, humility, compassion, sacrifice, strength and courage. I'm hopeful. Our best day's are yet to come!

In Christ,
Paul+

No time for foolishness!!!

This past weekend was such a great blessing. Dr. James A. Forbes, Jr. preached, prayed, sand, taught, comforted, challenged and inspired us. (If you missed it, I encourage you to contact the church office for a cd of the Saturday evening lecture and Sunday morning sermon.)

So many prophetic words, but one sentence captured me. He told the story of a friend and mentor who when traveling in Africa saw on the back of a truck the words, "No time for foolishness!" What a powerful and provocative statement.

No time for foolishness! These words call us to action. These words call for urgency. These words demonstrate the gravity of the situation. These words say, "Get up and get to work!" In this time in our nation and the world, this is no time for foolishness.

In this time in the life of Trinity Church, this is no time for foolishness! As long as people are hurting and hungry, there is no time for foolishness. As long as people are lonely and lost, there is no time for foolishness! As long as people hate and kill, there is no time for foolishness!

People of Trinity Church, you are going to hear these words again...I can assure you!! The time for action is now! The time for prayer in now! The time for service is now! The time for love and faithfulness is now! The time for Christ is now! This is no time for foolishness!

Peace,
Paul+