Talking points

Tensions need not lead to division

the gospel provides us with the tools to face polarization head on and become the kinds of people who stay in community with God and each other, rather than divide. –Sarah Nicholas in “Conflict reimagined – Deepen discipleship, not division”

Evil in our backyards

in most of our communities in Canada, we think it wouldn’t happen here – that this happens in Chicago and NYC, not sleepy London, Ont. We have to pause and realize that it is all right here. Part of all of this is coming to grips with evil in our backyards. Evil is here. Hurt is here. Racism is here. These things are right in front of us. We need to stop being blind to it. We need to understand that the presence of Jesus needs to be equally here and present. –Rick Boyes in “London church joins vigil for victims of vehicle attack”

Reconciliation not in programs

reconciliation is not found in institutional statements or programs, but is the overflow of being filled and led by the Holy Spirit right where we are. We must join the wounded, build friendships, listen to and tell stories (good stories and painful, angry stories). We must be attentive to the Spirit at work in and through others who are not like us. We must do sacrificial acts of love and service. We must with humility speak the truth about what was and is while naming clearly what is and is not God’s will. We must invite the truth of Scripture to confront and form us. We must build toward a new future with others that resembles the new creation where Jesus Christ is Lord and our ultimate hope. –Phil Wagler in “The news from Kamloops and the ongoing ministry of reconciliation”