A Perspective ... on the perfect storm

The perfect storm is a worst-case scenario. It happens when a series of threats, each of them individually troubling, coincide. It's a terrible confluence of tragedies. We're in the eye of the storm.

The global pandemic has overwhelmed us. In its wake it has created a global recession.

The 400 year old history of racial prejudice has emerged again. In its wake it has provoked destructive rioting

Anyone of these events by itself is frightening and disheartening. Together, they are potentially cataclysmic. Add to this our political disarray.

This is a pivotal moment. It can't be ignored. So, what should I feel, think and do? There is no easy and clear answer. But I do believe we can reawaken and rise to the occasion. I believe God desires restoration, recovery and reconciliation. I want to be part of the solution not part of the problem. I want my voice to be heard and my influence felt for love not hate, for grace not judgment, and empathy not apathy.

There is a time to stand up. Let your voice be heard and your presence be felt to promote healing, peace and racial reconciliation.

This is a time to sit down. Embrace an attitude of learning and listening.

There is a time to kneel. Take a posture of prayer. .. crying out to God for help to bring healing to bodies struggling with Covid and souls wrestling with justice.

Action begins with empathy. Empathy begins with understanding. And understanding begins with learning one another's stories.

May our hearts be open and our hands ready.