Lots of thoughts this Sunday night--events in the past, present & future all merging into the same theme of peace & justice for all. A theme we're all familiar with & seek to uphold--I'm learning the importance of defining "all."
My definitions this week came in the form of a rally for Seattle's homeless & the approaching 5th anniversary of the Iraq war.
On Thursday I attended a rally to bring awareness about the mayor's current approach to the issue of homelessness in Seattle. While confidently claiming there is enough shelter space for all (a blatant lie), the mayor's office policy is to sweep homeless people's encampments & throw away their sleeping bags & personal belongings.
"It is inhumane & immoral to punish people for living outside when there is not enough shelter or affordable housing to meet the need." So, during a rainy rush hour downtown, a group of us from Keystone Church (joined by others) attempted to let the public know of the horrible, unjust treatment of homeless people in our city.
Here's Kaaren & Gloria handing out leaflets.
My definitions this week came in the form of a rally for Seattle's homeless & the approaching 5th anniversary of the Iraq war.
On Thursday I attended a rally to bring awareness about the mayor's current approach to the issue of homelessness in Seattle. While confidently claiming there is enough shelter space for all (a blatant lie), the mayor's office policy is to sweep homeless people's encampments & throw away their sleeping bags & personal belongings.
"It is inhumane & immoral to punish people for living outside when there is not enough shelter or affordable housing to meet the need." So, during a rainy rush hour downtown, a group of us from Keystone Church (joined by others) attempted to let the public know of the horrible, unjust treatment of homeless people in our city.
Here's Kaaren & Gloria handing out leaflets.
Our Palm Sunday service today brought the reminder that five years ago this Wednesday, the United States started a war with Iraq. Five years of bloodshed, destruction, displacement & death. No matter how unintended, this is what we have brought to the people of Iraq. I think it's good to be reminded that peace & justice is their right also.
This is Holy Week, when we remember & reflect on Jesus' life & the final days leading up to his crucifixion. Jesus was a champion for forgotten, rejected people & even until his end, he lived to bring peace & justice to all. As my pastor said this morning,"Go out & be Christ in the world."
With the dawning of Easter a week away, I take this light out into the darkness with me. I do not wait for the return of Christ, but instead seek to be the living promise of his hope, love, justice & peace,
for all people.
1 comment:
i admire the ways you live your life, eliza, always seeking to serve the people of the world in practical and beautiful ways. you are such an inspiration to me. blessings to you and your family this week and also as you celebrate Easter this coming weekend!
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