The Morning After

Untold numbers of words were written and spoken as yesterday’s frightening and horrifying events transpired at the United States Capitol – including mine. Many were emotional pronouncements that were explicitly or implicitly judgmental. And to be honest, I’m not sure it could have been any different in the moment. But on this, the morning after, we need far fewer indignant, righteous and self-righteous words, and far more soulful reflection. Especially if we are Jesus’ followers. This is because our nation is not dealing primarily with a political issue, even if we act like it. We are in a spiritual crisis, and it is time that we act like it. It is my deepest hope and fervent prayer that we will allow the Word of the Lord in 2 Chronicles 7:14 to shape what we say and do in the coming days, “… if my people who belong to me will humbly pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.” (CEB)