Dear People of Grace,

It is so hard to watch what is transpiring in Minneapolis: the fires, the violence, the looting and the cries of lament and protest.

It is hard to know what is happening or why. I believe what began as a protest of people in mourning asking for justice has been invaded by people who want to make it worse and take advantage of a vulnerable situation.

I have been praying: for an end to the violence, for peace to come, for voices to be heard, for transformation, for restoration, for protection, for people protecting their neighborhoods, for the work of our law enforcement, for our Governor and our leaders and the list goes on and on. I know you join me in prayer too.

We have fellow Lutheran churches in Minneapolis doing good work in caring, and in providing for others.

I hope that you have seen the photos of all of the groceries that have been brought to the people in Minneapolis, whose grocery stores have been destroyed. When I see the bags of groceries: I see love, kindness, compassion, neighbors providing for each other. This is the work of God. This is God’s Spirit providing a refuge in this storm. In the midst of the devastation and pain I hope that you don’t just see despair but the hope born with each bag of groceries, each person who is listening with new ears, the murals painted in tribute and the tears shed.

As I cry today, I know God weeps as well.

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Let us pray:

God of peace, bring your protection to the city of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. We know it is important to hear the voices of those crying out in anguish, help is to listen. Put an end to the burning and the desecration of neighborhoods and businesses. Protect the homes, the businesses and most of all the people, who live there. Change our hearts so that we all might work for good, for love, for life following your way. Amen.