In light of the recent grand jury decision regarding the tragic shooting of Breonna Taylor, we understand that this can be a traumatic event for many and highly triggering. As we navigate through this we have put a spiritual guide of sorts together to provide you with additional spiritual support. We are with you, we support you, and we are here for you. Please reach out if you need additional support or prayers. God has been equipping us as a fellowship to navigate this with spiritual weapons and spiritual sight, we can put the things we have been learning the past few months into practice at this time.
Contents
How can we Respond as a Fellowship?
Pray
Pray for the family of Breonna Taylor and the safety of those in the City of Louisville. Pray through how you are feeling as well.
Hebrews 5:7
During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
Validate
Your feelings are valid. They are not right or wrong. Allow yourself to feel and validate the feelings of others. Take a look at this resource on biblical lamenting.
Mark 14:34
“My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”
Remember
We have a common enemy and a common God. Satan is the real enemy and he will use any opportunity to hurt and divide us while God can use it to unify us.
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Affirm your Compassion
Even if we have differing points of view, it is so important in moments like these to suffer with those who are hurting right now. Suspend judgement and just be there for your brothers and sisters as Jesus was for Lazarus, Mary, and Martha.
John 11:35
Jesus wept
Emotional Support
Talk to a brother or sister who can provide you with the support you need at this time. We all need safe spaces in times of grief. Jesus was vulnerable about how he felt prior to the cross.
Galatians 6:2
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ
Love
If you are not sure what to do, just remember to love others and remember you are loved. Love NEVER fails.
1 Corinthians 13:8a
Love never fails.
Reflect
Reflect on the cross and the solutions it provides to how we can respond. The cross has so many more answers than we may realize. Where do we see the cross right now and how does the message of the cross provide us with a template?
1 Corinthians 1:18
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
Additional Resources:
- Additional Race & Culture Resources from our website: https://sctcoc.org/category/race-&-culture/
- Michael Burns Teaching Ministry
- Race & Culture on Disciples Today
- ICOC Race & Culture Youtube playlist
- ICOC worship
- Article on Biblical Lamenting
