I’m tired.
I’m tired of hatred running rampant in this world.
I’m tired of people calling themselves Christians, but then being hateful and damning everyone they don’t agree with.
I’m tired of people not having compassion.
I’m tired of people not empathizing with those who are suffering.
I’m tired of the lack of justice.
Last night, I became so frustrated with all the injustice that is happening that I literally had to just lay down on the floor and put a blanket over my head (my teammates can vouch for that). As we all know, Election Day is upon us, which means that political opinions are being thrown around more frequently and with more passion than ever.
I know that writing about this may rub some people the wrong way, but I am so terrified that hate is going to win the election. I’m terrified that sexism will win the election. I’m terrified that xenophobia will win the election. I’m terrified that blatant ignorance and disrespect will win the election. I’m terrified that a complete disregard for the lives of those who don’t fit into what one believes should be the way people live their lives will win this election.
As someone who is so passionate about standing up for those who are oppressed and mistreated, it breaks my heart to think about all the people whose suffering is currently being disregarded, and whose suffering and oppression may become far greater after the results of the election.
My heart breaks for the families of those who have been wrongfully killed in acts of police brutality, but nothing is done about it.
My heart breaks for Muslim people who are simply trying to live their lives in peace, and yet are branded as terrorists, are harassed incessantly, and are deemed a threat to the countries they are in.
My heart breaks for refugees who are seeking solace from horrific war and violence, and yet are being put into the same category as those they are fleeing from.
My heart breaks for those who are being denied rights simply because people do not agree with their lifestyle.
My heart breaks for those who are being denied love when they need it the most.
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” ~ Romans 12:9
While there are so many people who are hating what is evil, clinging to what is good, and fighting for the oppressed, there is also a terrifying lack of love and justice in both America and the world. Now is the time when it is more important than ever to love those around us, regardless of the lives they are living. We need to focus on more than just what is affecting us, and fight for those who are oppressed and suffering.
“Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” ~ Isaiah 1:17
So much of my fear and frustration last night came from a feeling of hopelessness.
I felt hopeless in my inability to end all injustice right now.
I felt hopeless in my inability to save those who are suffering.
I felt hopeless in that no matter how much I try to speak out, there will always be people who choose not to hear me.
I felt so hopeless, but after speaking to one of my teammates, I was reminded of something: I need to trust in the Lord in all circumstances. I need to remember that I cannot fix everything and make the world a magical place with one swish of my hand. I need to remember that God is good, and no matter what happens, the world is in His hands. All I can do is trust in Him, do all I can to help further His Kingdom, and be His hands, feet, and voice in this world.
I can use the gifts He has given me to do what I can.
I can continue to be passionate about fighting for justice.
I can continue to be compassionate and empathetic.
I can continue to use my writing to talk about what is important.
I will continue to do His will, and I will continue to fight for what is right, but I need to remember that He is sovereign, He is good, and He is love.
“He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” ~ Colossians 1:17
I will soon be posting a blog about what I have been doing since I got to Ecuador and all that I have seen God doing. Stay tuned! 🙂
