I write to you this day after the election with such tenderness in my heart. I know and celebrate that we are a purple congregation. That some of us awoke this morning with relief and others with tremendous fear, disappointment and dismay. That we will gather for worship on Sunday and share our prayers, and lift our voices together, and praise the God of love as one people: God's people.
The call to us today, on the day after the election, is the same as it was a week ago, a month ago, a year ago. It is, as a dearly beloved friend and colleague texted me earlier this morning, to: lean into community seek out love applaud the good you see keep paying attention talk to your neighbors dance to the music and embrace art look for love and small joys take breaks and relish in nourishing your body donate what you can linger at the dinner table with friends check in with your people let yourself grieve love one another as deeply as you can don't give up. We're here together.
I would add to the list several things: look for the best in others seek out the voices and perspectives you're not hearing get curious. stay curious. wonder with questions and in awe. amplify the voices and address the needs of the most vulnerable among us consider the world we want to leave for our children and grandchildren Remember to rest. Remember to practice gratitude. Remember to rejoice.
And in the words of the prophet Micah: do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with God.
Please dear ones, however you are feeling about the election results, tend to your spirit in the next days and weeks. Attend to the ones you love. Pay attention to those who are hurting and be God's arms of love wrapping around them.
Please dear ones, know how beloved you are. How worthy of belonging and safety, of respect and care.
And let us continue to be a community of belovedness. Of radical inclusion. Of belonging and safety and joy. Let us be God's beloved community. Right here and right now.
