When the Neighbours are Fighting

After the events in Washington last week I debated whether I would mention what was happening south of the border in my mid-week e-mail reflection or my sermon last Sunday. I held off because I wasn’t sure I even understood all of the nuance to hope to attempt to articulate something coherent and helpful. To be honest I’m also suffering Trump fatigue and didn’t want to give even more air time to that story.

However, now that the dust is starting to settle I feel that it’s unavoidable to address what is going on. So many folks in my congregation have relatives in the States. Love them or hate them, they are our closest neighbour and biggest trade partner. And they are hurting and divided in profound ways. There is credible chatter that more violence is planned for inauguration day in every State. The issues plaguing Americans are not going away any time soon, much as we would like.

What is a faithful response to this turmoil, especially when the anxiety level of our own people is already high with the pandemic and our own concerns? Here are some suggestions:

  1. Take the time to get good information about what is happening. We can’t help others with skewed ideas and faulty facts. Keep an ear to the ground to have current news without obsessing or being glued to coverage.

  2. Be calm and concise in sharing information and diligent in accuracy. Focus on our call to respond with God’s love rather than getting caught in speculation, judgement or blame.

  3. Acknowledge that the sentiments that spewed over and produced these results are very present in Canada. We need to have our eyes open to possible similar events and growing attitudes here.

  4. Pray for all those directly impacted by what took place, as well as those indirectly impacted. Something precious was lost, feelings are still intense and raw, and leadership is struggling to find unity in a path forward. We can all pray for God’s will to be done, for peace, for healing.

  5. Encourage acts that communicate care - social media posts that don’t belittle or sensationalize but express concern, signing of petitions to leverage our government to take steps to stop domestic terrorism here, and other acts of solidarity to protect the safety and well-being of all people.

I recognize that I have much more to learn to understand the American political system, the various diverse groups and voices there and the needs at this time. While my focus should be on my own community and country, I can still monitor what my reaction is and how I speak to people from my congregation about what is happening. I can ensure that I’m not stoking fires of hate or scorn of anyone. I can stress the need for calm and trusting in our sovereign God. I can try to humanize those impacted.

As we begin to recognize that 2021 is not going to be an easier ride than 2020, may we rest in the knowledge of the God of angel armies being at our side. May we realize that we don’t have to have all the answers but to trust in the One who does. And may we be faithful, offering the best we can in service of our God.