**Listen Linda Speaks: The Power of Prayer and Action for Justice**
Beloved community, today we gather our hearts and minds to confront a grave injustice that weighs heavily on our souls. We find ourselves at a crossroads, where faith and action must intertwine to advocate for the innocent. The case of Marcellus Williams is a poignant reminder of the brokenness within our justice system. Almost seven years have passed since DNA evidence emerged, exonerating him from a crime he did not commit, yet the state of Missouri has scheduled his execution for September 24. This is not just a legal battle; it is a spiritual calling for all of us.
As we reflect on this urgent matter, we are reminded of Proverbs 31:8-9, which implores us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” It is our duty to lift our voices in prayer and petition, seeking God’s justice while also taking tangible steps toward it. We must pray fervently, asking the Lord to intervene in this situation, to grant wisdom to those in power, and to ensure that truth prevails.
But prayer alone is not enough. James 2:17 teaches us that “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” It is essential that we act. I urge you to pick up the phone and call 417-373-3400 to hear instructions from the Innocence Project. Let your voice echo through the halls of justice, and be connected with the Governor’s office to demand a halt to Marcellus’s execution. This is a moment where our faith can manifest through our actions.
The facts of this case are staggering. Marcellus Williams was wrongfully convicted based on unreliable testimony from individuals who had their own agendas and received favors from the prosecution. There is no physical evidence tying him to the crime, and yet, the Missouri Supreme Court has denied motions to reconsider his execution. This is not just a failure of the legal system; it is a cry for justice from the depths of our communities, especially for African American men who are disproportionately affected by such injustices.
In the spirit of Matthew 25:40, where Jesus reminds us that “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me,” let us act with urgency and compassion. Our signatures on petitions can create waves of change. I implore you to visit SaveMarcellus.org and add your name to the growing chorus demanding justice. We have less than 24 hours to make our voices heard—let us not let this opportunity slip away.
Furthermore, we must acknowledge the systemic issues that plague our justice system. Missouri’s death penalty laws reflect deep-seated racial disparities and prosecutorial misconduct. As we advocate for Marcellus, we also stand against a system that fails to serve justice fairly. It is our responsibility to confront these injustices not just for one man, but for all who suffer under these broken laws.
As we gather in prayer, let us also prepare for action. Let our presence be felt, as we stand united in faith and purpose.
In closing, let us remember the words from Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” We are called to be the hands and feet of justice in a world that desperately needs it. Pray, act, and let us be the voice for the voiceless. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can change lives.
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