In the wake of the murder of 17 children at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL the church hears the call to weep with those who weep and pray for those who are wrecked with grief. And the church also hears the call to repent of our complicity in a culture of violence in which more killing happens even in the name of peace. Jesus shows us another way. This message explores what it means for the church to repent and live today in light of God's kingdom which has come near in Christ. Attached documents are a Resolution to End Gun Violence adopted by the UMGeneral Conference 2016. This document also served as the basis for a sample letter to Florida and National legislators, urging them to act in practical ways which would lead to a less violent society. Of course, letter writing and prayer are just the beginning of what it means for the church to repent. This message invites further dialogue, urging people to consider what it means for them to "embrace the unsettling invitation" of Jesus to remember our baptism and enter the wilderness where God transforms us into people who live today in light of God's kingdom that is near and coming through Jesus.
Sample Letter to Legislators
UMC Resolution to End Gun Violence
Sermon Notes