It seems like our culture is in a downward spiral. We are more fractured, polarized, and divided than ever before. Turn on the TV and find pundits yelling at each other. Check your social media and find friends vilifying those they disagree with. How are we supposed to respond? Jesus teaches us how to rise above the division and to bring hope and healing to wounded people, fractured relationships, and divided communities. The way of Jesus is to take off the boxing gloves and stop inflicting intentional blows only to win a fight. Instead, we should pull up a chair. Engage in gracious conversation, be kind, truly listen to others, share truth in an honorable way, and be an agent of love in the face of so much pain and hate.
As I reflect on the all the fighting working so hard to tear us apart, I am reminded that unity is not the absence of differences but merely the absence of division. Our unity is a powerful tool against the enemy’s attacks of such evils and injustices. And I believe that unity starts with a listening ear. It is a time to listen to our differences. A time to hear from those whose life experiences are different from ours. A time to listen to those who see life differently than we do. A time to listen to those who are hurting. A time to break the silence on topics that have been kept in the dark. Listening creates understanding, empathy, compassion, and ultimately healing.
I want to listen to you! While these issues can be difficult to talk about, I know we must keep having conversations about them. I believe some very important dialogue will transpire right here. Will you join me? There are four opportunities for you to do so:
IN-PERSON
VIRTUAL
I would love for you to join me during one of these times of conversation. Please respond to this email by August 7th, to let me know if you are willing to join, and if so, at which time. Looking forward to it!
Ryan
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