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Folks:
The news has just been announced that former President Trump was found guilty by a jury of all 34 counts against him in what is being called “the hush money trial”. My heart sank and I had tears in my eyes as I reflected on how our nation got here and what this means for our future. I lifted in prayer all those who will be preaching this weekend, that they may be confident in the gospel. I lifted a prayer for those listening to the sermons this weekend, that they may offer grace to their preachers. I lift a prayer for our nation and world, that peace prevails.
As a reminder, we in UCC affirm these things: 1. Jesus Christ is head of the church. 2. Preachers have freedom of the pulpit. 3. The Church has something to say about what is happening in the world today. 4. Following IRS guidelines, we cannot support (or denigrate) a political candidate.
This is an important moment in history, a history in which we believe God is active and present. It may be too early to say how God is active in this moment; and yet, we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 NIV). In the long arc of history, it is difficult, perhaps, in one instant to know what God’s love is guiding our future to be. And we know that whatever comes, God will be there.
What can the Church say today? We can say that we know the gospel to be true, that Jesus Christ is the leader, not just of the free world, but of all the world and the universe beyond. We can say that the Church is the feet and hands of Christ, and we are called into his mission to call forth God’s realm into use in the world.
As we step into Christ’s gospel, as we seek hope and justice and peace, may Paul’s exhortation to the Philippians be our faithful guide: beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things (Philippians 4:8, NRSV).
Peace, Pastor Tony
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