Thoughts on Charleston S.C. and the Confederate Flag

Thoughts on Charleston S.C. and the Confederate Flag

If you are follower of Jesus and something very bad happens how do you respond?

Nine people were in their church  building having a Wednesday evening Bible study.  A stranger comes into their group with a need. 

I remember a distraught grandmother coming into a Wednesday Bible study in Denver with her granddaughter in tow.  She was completely broken by her cutting herself.  He had marks of over a hundred cuts on her arms.  The woman was at a complete loss regarding what to do.  She needed help immediately.  We counseled the young woman and gave the grandmother some materials to help her understand how to help long term.  I don't know what happened. 

I know that in the church in Charleston N.C. a young man was welcomed into a prayer meeting of nine people.  Nine were shot and killed.

At the bond hearing for the young man all the family members attended and extended forgiveness to the shooter.  They said words of truth and words of grace.  Some said in essence, "We welcomed you into our Bible study and you killed the most precious people in our lives.  But because of our leader, Jesus Christ" we forgive you."

The young man said in his social media posts that he wanted to start a "race war".  He had pictures of the Confederate Flag.  Now there is a great debate going on in the state of South Carolina and in the National Congress about this flag.  Now a debate and discussion is not a "war".  It is free people in a free nation debating different points of view.

As for me I know this.
Jesus leads his followers to be open to strangers.  That is the work we are called to do.  To love God and love our neighbors.  This is dangerous at times all over the world and even in America now.  We must keep following.

Jesus leads his followers to be forgiving. This doesn't mean to release people from the government consequences of their actions.  It means that you turn them over to God and the authorities He has set up for "justice".

Today they are taking down the Confederate flag from the South Carolina statehouse.  It is a solemn time for all in that city.

If the families of those killed in Charleston can do this by God's Amazing Grace surely we followers of Jesus can pray for grace, mercy and peace as we live each day.  Let us pray for all people before we post things on social media and ask.  Is this what Jesus would want me to post?  Is this true?  Is this kind?  Is this loving?  Is this helpful?  Does this contribute positively to the conversation?

Larry Wishard