What To Do

I have never been a particularly fearful person, you know, the kind of individual who worries a lot about things that are unlikely to come to fruition. I confess to a bit of uneasiness during take-offs and landings when I fly, and that's about it. 

But in the past eight-and-a-half months, I've had times of downright terror when I look at what is going on in my country. Terror isn't the only feeling; there is anger; there is sadness, there is despair. And there is helplessness.

I remember how hopelessly said I was on November 9; I blogged about my feelings then. I said that the election may have changed a lot of things, but it hadn't changed who I am. 

Over these months, though, I've lost sight of that resolve. I've given in to fear and the other associated feelings. This morning, however, I received a none-too-subtle reminder that I'm not completely helpless in the face of our country's situation. I received a clear outline of what I am to do. 

If you attend a church that follows the Revised Common Lectionary, you may have heard what I heard. But if you didn't, let me share it with you now. It comes from the 12th Chapter of Romans:

9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; 10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.

14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly;[b] do not claim to be wiser than you are. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. 18 If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God;[c] for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 No, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.