12 Jul We need peace.

I awoke this morning to the news reports of tragedy in Dallas. I heard the reports on other tragic deaths in police action shootings. All of these are tragic…all heartbreaking.

It’s not just that there is violence, but it’s heartbreaking because we believe every life matters! No matter your social standing, income, age, ethnicity, religion, or gender you are valuable.

So where is our hope? What is our solution? I once read from a great book, “Love your neighbor as yourself…” Seems to still be good advice. I know I need to spend more time in that book, the Bible.

Christ came to change the world and to change our lives. He came to bring peace and hope in the mist of violence, pain, anger, hurt and distress.

Will you join with me in praying that will happen again? I pray for my neighbors. I pray for all in public safety. I pray for myself.

I am blessed to be served by one of the finest police departments in the whole United States – IMPD. I know beat officers. I know the leadership. They are worthy of our trust and their lives matter. They work alongside us at Shepherd to keep our families, our neighbors, and our children safe.

I know my neighbors, I am privileged to raise my family on the near Eastside. They are great people and their lives matter, too.

Can we all agree, every life matters! Wrong behavior should be addressed, but today I must love my neighbor as myself. Wouldn’t that change things?

-Jay