Scripture: Deuteronomy 24:17-22
Message: Look for the Helpers
Recently I was in a conversation with a dear friend about the war in Iran. I stated that, as a Christian I cannot support this war. She scrunched her forehead and held my gaze while asking, with some incredulity, “How can you not support our troops?!”
You see her husband served honorably and braves in the Marines for several years prior to their marriage. It was like I was telling her that I did not respect the sacrifice that he made of those many years when he served our country putting his very life at risk to do so.
But that’s just the thing. I absolutely respect and hold in high esteem all members of our military near and far. I recognize in awe their courage to make this commitment and the physical and mental strength that I could never have to follow through. What I cannot get behind is the act of war, so often (and I do believe in this case particularly) is not for the sake of freedom and in the name of our democratic principles but instead for the sake of greater power and wealth for just a few. As followers or Christ we are called to building up community, lifting the poor and powerless, not fighting wars at their expense. Jesus said, blessed are the peacemakers and even called out his own disciple when they attempted to violently fight off the guards as they attempted to arrest Jesus. His entire ministry was about finding a way to be faithful that didn’t stand against another person or group of people. It was about uniting with zero casualties.
War is wrong and unfaithful but to commit to the principles of liberty and freedom for all? Honorable beyond measure.
This Sunday our student minister will be preaching. Looking forward to seeing you all!
Peace,
Cheryl
Music:
Prelude: “Chant on E” Allen LeVines
Anthem: “O God, how we have wandered” J. S. Bach
Meditation: “Come, Gather” Elaine Kirkland
Postlude: “Living Water” Hal Hopson