In times of crisis, violence and pain, sometimes we look for things to do. We cry, we pray, and then we want to act. Faithelement writer and blogger Erin Robinson Hall and Podcast panelist Daniel Glaze offers the following ideas for ways your small group (or you as an individual) may participate in activities of response.
- Light a candle.
- Candles might symbolize the light of Christ, illuminating this world and our lives. Candles represent also our prayers lifted before God.
- Name the victims.
- There is power in reading the names of those who lost their lives. When we remember them aloud, not only do we ensure that their memory is not forgotten, but it makes an imprint on our own hearts. Humanity connected.
- Pray in color.
- In your personal prayers, write the names of the victims in Nice, France as a prayer.
- Thank those who help.
- You might not be able to go to Orlando, but perhaps you can visit your local firehouse, police station, or rescue station and thank them for the tireless (and often thankless) work they do. Bring brownies…trust me on this one.
- Sidewalk chalk.
- Write your prayers on the streets or sidewalk. Reflect on what your prayers look like in the harsh light of day, as people walk over them in their busy days.
- Engage with people in person.
- Resist the urge to argue in posts and comment threads. But, also resist the urge to say nothing. As you find opportunity, speak in Jesus’ name for peace and against violence.