I awoke early this morning to the horrible news of more senseless violence that ended nine sweet lives at a bible study in Charleston, South Carolina.  It is being called a hate crime.

 

It should also be called an “enough is enough” moment.

 

For those of us who have answered the call to follow Christ it is time to speak for those whose voices are now silenced and say, “No more. Enough is enough.”  Christians of all sorts are called to change the world, to “turn [it] upside down” (Acts 17.6).

 

Join me in preaching peace to those who are far off and to those who are near (paraphrase of Ephesians 3.17)  It is the most important work any of us will do today – or any day.  Do it for your friends, for your family, for your children and their children.  Leave a legacy of the peace of Christ to this world.

 

Today we have nine reasons to proclaim peace.  Today we have

 

 

Peace,

Ram

 

 

 

Women and men swallowed by hate

Nine

Families deeply wailing senseless death

Nine

Voices learning the language of love

Nine

Heralds silenced from proclaiming the King

Nine

Now still lives who sought Christ’s Way

Nine

Hearts of God’s desire stopped

Nine

More examples of the world’s deep need

Nine

Violent ends – when will it stop?

Nine

Pools of blood and tears crying for justice

Nine

Stories unfinished

Nine

Calls for Christ followers to change the world

Nine

Children of God urging us to do something.

Nine

Prayers for peace lifted high to God.

Nine.

 

By Ram Lopez

18 June 2015

 

 

3. For the Human Family (Book of Common Prayer)

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.