just gotta trust the system

Last night I waited and watched with trepidation the verdict concerning Ferguson, MO.  I knew the revelation would not be acceptable by either camp.  The plain fact is lives were changed forever that fateful night.  The Brown family lost a loved one to violence.  The Wilson family had their lives changed forever due to violence.  Before hearing the facts, the world had made up its mind.  Yes, Brown was shot down dead in cold blood; No, Wilson acted in self-defense.  I will not form an opinion.  I have not read the evidence like the Grand Jury did.  I have not heard eye- witness testimony. I have not seen the autopsy reports.  I will admit that statistics show there are more persons of color inhabiting our penal system.  I will admit that there is still in the 21st century much racial tension and discrimination.  We need to fix that.  We need to find solutions and use our minds and our voices and not our weapons and strength.  Children are STILL being bullied-- to the point of death.  The saying "Why can't we just all get along" is a riddle rather than a statement.  Why can't we all get along?  We need to fix that.

For now I will grieve with the families of Michael Brown and Darren Wilson.  In the blink of an eye, their lives will never be the same and unlike maybe you or I, the whole world is watching them.

Gracious God, why do you love us so?  We are flawed people.  We have misused and abused the precious gifts you have given us.  We would rather fight and bully one another rather than sit at table at talk about what divides us.  We would prefer to use our great wealth on ourselves instead of being the solution to hunger and poverty.  Forgive us, LORD.  In your loving kindness show us the way this Advent season as we wait for the one true perfect example, Christ Jesus.
   Comfort the families and friends affected by violence.  May we strive to end hunger and poverty in our midst and in the world.  Help us to realize Heaven on Earth and seek it daily as we fight for peace, justice, and reconciliation.  Amen (May it be so).