As I write this post, a news helicopter is circling over downtown Salisbury, undoubtedly here to film what may well be a [take your pick] gathering/protest/peaceful march as a result of the DA's ruling in the Ferguson Laurent case.
It's hard to know what to think. Laurent was not the model citizen by any stretch of the imagination, and the DA's report exonerating the officer seems logical, given the facts pieced together by state investigators.
So why the protest? It's important to remember that Laurent represents a demographic -- young black men -- who increasingly feel like they have to watch their backs around police. Was Laurent justified in firing the first shot at the officer? Not in my book. But are other young black men justified in raising questions? Of course they are ... although I hope they would do so in the spirit of civility and self-control ...
.... which is one of the many challenges we seem to be facing these days -- the lack of civility and self-control. Our governmental leaders certainly don't serve as role models ... nor does the Rutherfordton pastor who tried to "beat the evil spirit out of" his homosexual parishioner (from today's Salisbury Post). Another round of terrorist attacks in London last Saturday serves as the extreme example -- deranged murderers who take joy in bringing chaos and fear in the name of their "god."
What are we to do? There's no easy answer, but I have a hunch Jesus would start with a phrase he shared in the Sermon on the Mount: "blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God." In its original language, "blessed" (ashray) isn't a passive hope that folks will simply "be happy." Instead its an active plea, literally to get up and do something for the sake of what is right. "Get up and do something" you peacemakers, for you are children of God! In other words, get your hands dirty for the sake of what is right. Help to build a humane society rooted in civility and peace.
Get up. Do something. Move ... because in time like these, God doesn't need peace-contemplators. God needs peace-makers.
Blessings to you, my peace-maker friends. I'll see you around the neighborhood :)
