July 2015 Monthly Letter

Dear Family of Reconcilers,

I’m sure that your heart is broken over the horrifying massacre that took place during bible study at the Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina on June 17, by 21-year-old Dylan Storm Roof. It was classified a hate crime.

As one who works in the Ministry of Reconciliation, a ministry that promotes love and peace and unity, it was truly heart-breaking. And it is a strong reminder of the work that still needs to be done. And the more we witness incidents such as this that more it reminds us of the need to “bear down in prayer and longing for ‘thy Kingdom come.’”

One of the main questions that have been asked in light of this tragedy is “How are family members able to say, ‘I forgive him for what he did?’” And especially since he didn’t ask for forgiveness and showed no remorse for this horrible crime.

The answer from scripture, and the life and death of Jesus for our sins cry out “forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.” And that includes all sins. It is not always an easy task but God gives us the strength. And those parishioners at Emmanuel AME showed us all a sterling example of Jesus’ command.

Another question that people often ask after tragedy like this, especially at church is: Why did God allow this to happen to these good servants of His? Are we not safe even in church? The answer in scripture is “time and chance happens to all men.” Therefore, we all walk with God on a daily basis as individuals without comparing ourselves to others. He works with each of us personally. I love the following passage of God’ love and assurance at times of tragedy and suffering:

2 Corinthians 4:17: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.”

Verse 18: “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”(KJV).

I would like to close with this quote I heard from author Steven Estes, who said: “God allows what He hates to accomplish what he loves.”

And as Jesus prayed to the Father before His crucifixion, “That they all may be one as we are one, Father, just as you are in me I am in you.” John 17:21. We know that He loves reconciliation.

Thank you all for standing with us as we seek to share the gospel of Love, Peace and Hope.

May He richly bless and keep you.