My heart is deeply troubled. The leader of the nation that I live in has started to contemplate dropping bombs again. I voted for the leader. I helped buy the bombs. Though I have no control over the decisions being made, I am responsible for what happens next.
The bombs will unquestionably escalate a conflict in Syria that has already claimed the lives of over 100,000. More people will die. There will be more pictures of children wrapped in white sheets and bullet-riddled bodies. Both sides in the conflict will be hardened and resist talks of peace. The violence will continue.
How can we tell other people not to kill while we drop bombs and kill? There is no such thing as a peaceful killer. If we strike, we will only be what we are…killers.
I am angry that Bashar al-Assad continues to perpetuate unfathomable violence against the Syrian people. I am angry that the Syrian rebels have engaged in heinous practices of violence in retaliation. I am angry…but I do not believe that further violence can ever bring about peace…only love can do that.
Though there is little I can physically do stop what seems like an inevitable military intervention, I choose to follow the examples of the prophets of old. In times of looming crisis they fasted and prayed. I choose to do the same. For the next three days, I will not eat and I will pray that all parties will choose love.
I will break the fast at communion on Sunday morning at The Church at Mable Peabody’s.
I seek your prayers.
Amen.
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