Day 19

First, I read today’s Scripture (Psalm 11) and then I read the recent post “Just Two Questions…” at www.kimballavejw.wordpress.com.  Wow, is Psalm 11 relevant!  My first response to the tragic violence in Grant Park and the Fullerton El stop (and I knew Sally King) was, I understand why people say “Flee like a bird to your mountain!”–the ancient equivalent of “Move to the suburbs!”  And I understand hopelessness in the face of violence (ie “when the foundations of law and order are collapsing, what can the righteous do?”)

In the face of senseless and disturbing violence, we often hear the “escape” advice.  “Move to someplace safer.”  I hear it all the time.  Young parents in the city tell me they have to move to protect their children   In our culture of violence, no place is truly safe anymore.  And there is a growing helplessness and hopelessness.  What can we do?

First, we cannot stop being people of justice in the face of violence.  The upright will see God’s face.  Second, we cannot forget the One who sits upon the throne.  God is in God’s holy temple.  My safety is not determined by my location.  My safety–and my peace–are determined by the location of my God.